KEM BARTHOLOMEW, General Manager of the Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA)
News
June 16, 2026
NORTH LEEWARD RESIDENTS are calling for greater investment in their communities from proceeds generated through sand extraction activities in the Roseau River Valley.
The issue was discussed during a community meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the Learning Resource Centre in Golden Grove, Chateaubelair, where residents gathered to discuss matters relating to the Roseau River Valley in North Leeward and the ongoing sand mining project being undertaken in the area. During the meeting, community members expressed concerns that while large quantities of sand is being extracted from the river and sold by the Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA), little of the revenue appears to be directly benefiting the communities from which the resource is being taken. Residents made it clear, however, that they are not opposed to the removal of the sand itself. Several persons noted that the material is naturally washed down in the valley and eventually ends up in the sea.
However, they argued that some of the profit earned from the export of the resource should be re-invested in North Leeward to support development and improve the quality of life for residents. Among those at the head table were parliamentary representative for North Leeward, Dr. Kishore Shallow and General Manager of the BRAGSA Kem Bartholomew, along with other representatives involved in discussions surrounding the project.
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