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Sen Young: Extremely Disappointed At Closure of Wellsville Plant

August 4, 2016

WELLSVILLE, NY – State Senator Cathy Young (R, Olean) has issued the following statement:

The closure of the Lufkin-RMT plant (a division of GE Oil & Gas) in Wellsville is unwelcome news and extremely disappointing. The company had not expressed to anyone that there was an issue, so this announcement is coming out of the blue. After I learned of the news, I personally spoke with a representative from GE Oil & Gas’ headquarters in Houston to request that they work with state and local officials to reverse this decision. Regrettably, I was informed that the price of oil had dropped to a new low, and it is expected to stay low for an extended period of time, severely impacting the company’s ability to operate.

“I have urged the company to take care of the employees with severance packages and other considerations. I will be working with the Department of Labor to assist these workers with job placement and training. My heart goes out to the them because this affects their families and their lives.”

UPDATE: 3:20pm – Statement from Allegany County Legislative Chairman Curt Crandall:

 I was saddened to learn that the employees of Lufkin RMT in Wellsville have been notified that the facility, a division of GE, plans to close by the end of the year.  The hearts of the County Legislators go out to the employees and their families.  They are our friends and neighbors, and a vital part of our community.  These employees are hard-working, skilled men and women that represent Allegany County well in the quality products they produce.    The County has reached out to our federal and state representatives as well as Empire State Development for assistance in retaining these valuable jobs in Allegany County.  We will be working through our Development Office as well as our Employment and Training Office to open and explore all options and opportunities. 

UPDATE: 7:00pm – Statement From Assemblyman Joe Giglio:

My office was informed this morning of the closure of GE’s Lufkin-RMT facility in Wellsville by the end of the year. I was saddened to hear about this closure resulting from the oil and gas market’s impact on the business.

This is a global company with global problems. Unfortunately, these problems are now affecting our community. My concerns are with the employees and their families during this difficult time, and I will assist in any way that I can.


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