W2E-004 Mixed Ulster editorials-5.txt
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THE visit of a 40-strong EC team to Londonderry today shows the value of determined self promotion. John Hume has influential contacts in Europe and America and uses them to show to a wider audience the problems facing his native city.

If there is a criticism, it would be that Mr Hume, as a MEP for the whole province, should have drawn up a wider itinerary for his visitors. Doubtless, though, he would argue that the difficulties of Derry are more acute than in other areas and the self-help initiatives employed to tackle them more innovative.

The exercise demonstrates the need for Ulster's politicians to take a more positive international role. Belfast MPs, Cecil Walker and Joe Hendron, proved on their recent visit to America that there are jobs and investment to be found abroad.

Belfast, whose image has been ill-served by some of its councillors in recent times, is also to engage in a big jobs and tourism promotion, costing £ 5m over the next five years. Perhaps more of our politicians are now learning that economic revival is more important than bickering over issues which they cannot influence.
