Derry is the 4th largest city on this island. There are signs that our city is finally turning the corner. The Chamber of Commerce, with it's strategic partners, are working to change the face of the city and the North West Region in general. New air links have been established to the UK mainland, Dublin, and beyond to the benefit of both tourism and business. However, these advances have not been without cost or set back. And there remains a concern that central government are not doing enough to meet the challenges. That is why the Chamber are continuing their efforts to ensure the implementation of the Regional Development Strategy which recognises the role of Derry as the regional city and hub of the North West.

The textile industry in Derry and in the surrounding North West region has been hit by significant job losses in recent years, due to heavy competition from low wage economies, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Far East. The recent Fruit of the Loom announcement to cut 630 jobs in the north west followed by the announcement that it is to close its Irish operations within five years follows a trend set by other textile companies including Desmonds, UNIFI and Herdmans, who have cut jobs in the North West in recent times. However, Derry is developing strength in depth, which will enable it to take such blows with a spirit of optimism.

The north west has fast been developing a sense of self-confidence and may have acquired itself a new suitor. Northbrook Technology, Homeloan Management Ltd (HML), and Prumerica are examples of the large ICT and financial services businesses making the most of this regions newfound fondness for technology. Derry's renewed confidence isn't misplaced. The decision of these companies to come was driven by the following factors; firstly, the size and quality of labour pool; secondly, a location for delivering high-quality, cost-effective technology and business solutions; thirdly, the strategic offshore, in relation to the Eurozone and border; and finally, the strong partnerships with local players, including local universities and colleges."

Numbers of tourists visiting the old walled city, fascinated by its beauty and rich and turbulent history have grown significantly in recent years. Derry has been nominated as a signature tourism project to sell Northern Ireland in the recently launched 'Strategic Framework for Action 2004- 2007' by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. This puts Derry on the same footing as the nearby world famous Giant's Causeway in terms of tourist status.

However, despite the recent gains made in business investment and tourism significant obstacles still exist which prevent many from getting the best out of the region. To realise its potential, the constraints of underdeveloped physical infrastructure have to be removed. There is legacy of under investment under direct rule administrations. Given the extensive emerging opportunities, including the prospect of civil servants being relocated to Derry, the threat of closure currently hanging over the rail link with Belfast is incomprehensible. The City of Derry Airport is an important gateway to the region, and the support of both Governments is essential in finding a much-needed solution that will give the Airport a much more secure foundation going forward.

The Regional Development Strategy recognises the position of Derry as the hub and capital of the North West. In the Republic, the Derry-Letterkenny 'axis' is a regional gateway within the National Spatial Strategy. However, the international boundary severs the region, so while these two 'capitals' in the region are only twenty five miles apart, the absence of a joined up approach from both Governments is holding back its much fuller potential.

The Chamber is working on a number of activities in this area:

Projects/Activities