Ulster's new political classes
UTV staff appear to be migrating en masse from the television studios to the election stump.
At this rate it is only a matter of time before Julian Simmons is taking on Frank Mitchell in East Belfast.
At first glance, the influx of journalists into politics looks strange. After all, most opinion polls show that journalists are right up there alongside bookmakers, estate agents and, er, politicians as the most despised professions.
Yet the decisions of Mike Nesbitt and Fearghal McKinney to stand in the next General Election are a healthy sign that Northern Ireland is beginning to emerge into an era of "normal" politics.
There is talent in politics here but all parties would agree that there is not enough of it.
The reason for this is obvious – born leaders who would naturally be attracted to politics in other societies have been reluctant to get involved here.
Violence and intimidation, the lack of any real political influence and the depressing nature of tribal sectarianism have all played a part.
The fact that Nesbitt, McKinney, and before them the PR executive Conall McDevitt, have made the move into politics indicates that times are changing.
They have plenty to offer their respective parties – not least in improving their presentation skills, helping them to get a deeper understanding of the media and getting their messages across.
Watching their progress will make the impending election that much more interesting – both have formidable challenges in winning their respective seats, but whether they do or not, their mere presence in the contest should inspire others.
The Northern Irish political scene is currently dominated by career politicians, former teachers, lawyers, ex-community workers, the odd medic and what Gerry Adams refers to as "Irish political activists".
The influx of PR people and journalists is healthy, but what would really help to move things on would be for more business leaders to join the fray.
In other societies there is a strong cross-over between the business community and politics – and the expertise provided is of immense value in helping to shape policy and define priorities.
The major challenge we face is economic – and specifically how we create an enterprise economy which, over time, can reduce our dependence on a bloated public sector so that we can start to build a new, prosperous Northern Ireland.
We'll be in much better shape to achieve this when the business community is much more closely engaged in politics.
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 14 February 2012
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