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There's a growing interest among Atlantic Canadians in regional development. Call it a culture of empowerment.

After more than a century of federal policies calculated to advance Ontario and Quebec, Atlantic Canadians are beginning to redevelop the trade networks that made this region a hub of commerce in the 19th century.

The Council of Atlantic Premiers isn't there just yet, but it's making progress.

On Friday, Premier Shawn Graham participated in a joint announcement with the premiers of Nova Scotia, P.E.I. and Newfoundland. The substance was that the Atlantic provinces are prepared to work together on a number of initiatives, from public health campaigns and a common radio communications system to economic development, climate policy and energy. The premiers also issued two demands to the federal government: to increase funding for affordable housing, and to invest in the Atlantic Gateway and efforts to strengthen transportation infrastructure.

To a Liberal premier who seems reluctant to criticize the Conservative federal government, the Council of Atlantic Premiers offers some distinct advantages.

There is a comforting anonymity in unanimity. Standing shoulder to shoulder with his fellow premiers, Shawn Graham can take stands that might seem demanding if he voiced them all alone. Aligning with Conservatives - even a federally unpopular Conservative, such as Newfoundland Premier Danny Williams - offers a kind of camouflage.

There is strength in numbers - and, for an Atlantic politician trying to convince the feds his province is looking for a hand up, not a hand out, there is strength in organization. The Atlantic provinces are demonstrating they can work together to resolve major policy issues, rather than depending upon Ottawa to impose solutions.

The premiers' growing co-operation on health and energy is an example. Only lack of political will has prevented this region from developing an integrated health care system or a more sophisticated regional electrical grid. Rising costs have supplied the motivation; and a new generation of politicians is supplying the will.

Keep it up, Mr. Graham. New Brunswick's best hope of achieving self-sufficiency depends on working with its neighbours to achieve efficiency.