Kurtz Reaffirms Support for Valero Refinery in meeting with new refinery GM

Samuel Kurtz, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, has reaffirmed his support for the Valero refinery in Pembroke.

The refinery, owned by Valero since 2011, directly employs over 500 workers and supports hundreds more through contract and supply chain work, making it a cornerstone of the local economy.

Mr Kurtz recently met with Kyle Gentry, the newly appointed Vice President and General Manager of Pembroke Refinery, to discuss the future of the oil and gas industry in West Wales and underline his backing for the sector.

Speaking after the meeting, Kurtz said:

“It was a pleasure to meet with Kyle and hear about the continuing strength and importance of the refinery in Pembroke. Valero is a global company, and their long-term investment in Pembrokeshire demonstrates their confidence in the skilled local workforce and the strategic importance of this site.

“The oil and gas industry will remain essential for decades to come. It plays a vital role in our national energy security and underpins economic resilience, for Pembrokeshire and the UK more broadly.

“The UK and Welsh governments’ attacks on the oil and gas industry will be hugely detrimental to both Valero and our economy. They must engage proactively with Valero and the wider hydrocarbon sector to better understand the number of jobs supported, both directly and through the extensive supply chain, which cannot be overstated.”

Photo caption: Samuel Kurtz MS with Kyle Gentry, Pembroke Refinery and Stephen Thornton and William James, both of Valero.