Staff Writer 

#TurksandCaicos, August 11, 2023 – Another Member of Parliament in the Turks and Caicos Islands is being called on to communicate more after a shooting in Blue Hills over the weekend, injuring two people.  Randy Howell, MP to Blue Hills released a newsletter to his constituents on August 6th regarding the incident from two days prior.

The statement, eventually shared on social media, was met with frustration from the residents.

Though comments were few, many expressed frustration at his silence over the past two and a half years since winning the seat.

“All the crimes took place since the PNP gain government you never said a word NOW YOU COMING OUT TALKING GARBAGE!!!” said one particularly heated resident.

Another resident was concerned that the statement took so long to be delivered, a full two days after the shooting in which at least ‘49 rounds’ were fired into the community.

“A few days late…,” they said.

Others were critical of the lack of opportunities for young men and reminded Howell of his slim margin of victory.

“Well they [weren’t] encouraging the young people to join the police Department so they will find whatever jobs they find easier to get money to buy guns and hard drugs,” a resident expressed.

“The people of the affected area [are] still waiting on your promises and visit, just remember 333 to 318 you only won by 15 votes,” said another.

Howell, for his part, denounced the violence which he said left the community disoriented.  He also thanked the police for their own work but called for them to move more quickly.

“We note, however, that the residents affected would have desired a shorter response time.  I have done previously and will continue to advocate for the return of an outpost/station in the Blue Hills settlement that would provide prompt service to both High-Rock and Wheeland and that will narrow the response gap that we now endure,” he maintained.

Overall reception to the message via Facebook was poor with residents expressing disbelief and disappointment in the situation.