Kurtz and Davies Champion Jobs, Skills and Energy Security During Visit by Kemi Badenoch
Welsh Conservative Senedd candidates Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz have underlined their commitment to protecting and growing Pembrokeshire’s vital energy sector jobs, while expanding opportunities through skills and apprenticeships.
The comments follow a visit by Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch to the Valero oil refinery in Pembroke, where she met workers and industry leaders to discuss the sector’s critical contribution to the local and national economy.
Davies and Kurtz highlighted the central role of the energy industry in sustaining thousands of high-skilled, well-paid jobs across Pembrokeshire and its supply chains. They also set out a clear ambition to ensure local people are equipped to access these opportunities.
A key part of that ambition is a commitment to deliver 125,000 apprenticeships over the next Senedd term, supporting people of all ages into work, strengthening key industries, and addressing skills shortages across Wales.
Paul Davies said:
“Apprenticeships are one of the most effective pathways into employment and are vital to the success of our local economy.”
“By investing in skills, we can help more people into rewarding careers while ensuring businesses have access to the workforce they need to grow.”
“Supporting our energy sector and investing in training go hand in hand; protecting jobs today while creating opportunities for the next generation.”
Samuel Kurtz said:
“Pembrokeshire sits at the heart of Wales’ energy economy. The Valero refinery and the wider oil and gas sector underpin thousands of skilled, well-paid jobs locally, alongside a significant supply chain.”
“Kemi Badenoch’s visit sends a strong signal that we will stand firmly behind these jobs and the communities that depend on them.”
“But protecting jobs today must go hand in hand with preparing for tomorrow. Our commitment to 125,000 apprenticeships will open doors for local people, giving them the skills they need to build lasting careers here in West Wales.”
“At a time of global uncertainty, strengthening our domestic energy capacity is essential so the UK is less reliant on imports and better able to secure its own future.”
The Welsh Conservatives have reaffirmed their support for the future of the oil and gas sector, recognising its ongoing role in delivering reliable and affordable energy.
This forms part of a broader plan to strengthen the economy across Mid and West Wales, backing industry, developing skills, and ensuring long-term energy security.
ENDS
