Local Assembly Member Paul Davies has co-hosted a reception with Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire AM Angela Burns, celebrating the work of the Welsh ports industry. The sector supports over 3,000 jobs in Wales and in 2013, Welsh ports handled 58.9m tonnes – a contribution of 12 per cent of the total tonnage through UK ports.

Mr Davies said, "I was delighted to co-host an event celebrating Welsh ports at the National Assembly for Wales. The reception was a great opportunity to engage with the sector and listen to ways in which the Assembly can help better support the industry. Locally for example, tackling issues such as transport infrastructure, supporting businesses and attracting inward investment would be a huge support to Fishguard and Milford Haven ports."

He added, "Welsh Conservatives have long supported Welsh ports; and last month tabled a debate on this very issue. I was pleased to take part in that debate, where I was able to highlight Pembrokeshire's important role in the ports industry."

Angela Burns AM said, "Sponsoring this event gave Paul Davies and I the opportunity to reinforce how important ports are to the Welsh economy, and particularly to the economy and wellbeing of Pembrokeshire. As well as better transport links we must also support the Welsh ports industry in future proofing themselves to changes in the market. They and we need take advantage of every opportunity to build a broad portfolio of activities so we can build on our current strengths."