Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice & Equality, David Stanton attended the official celebration of the transfer of Whitegate Refinery to Irving Oil. The event took place at Whitegate Refinery.

“The sale of Whitegate Refinery to Irving Oil was officially concluded in September as extremely welcome. It ensured not only the continued employment of its exiting 160 staff and many contract personnel but also the security of our national energy policy. Whitegate is our only oil refinery with a processing capacity of up to 75,000 barrels of crude oil per day and produces transport and heating fuels such as diesel, kerosene and gasoline.

“It was great to see such a large turnout at today’s event. In addition to Irving Oil employees, my colleague minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Denis Naughten TD and Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Simon Coveney TD was also present along with other local public representatives. Many members of the local community were also present and the level of engagement with local people is testament to Irving Oil’s commitment to the future of the Whitegate facility.

“I am very pleased that I could be present to celebrate Irving Oil’s purchase of Whitegate Refinery. Its continued operation is very important to my constituents and also to our national economic growth and energy security.