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FREDERICTON - A former New Brunswick premier says the Atlantic provinces have to stop competing with each other and find more ways to unite.

Frank McKenna, now deputy chair of the TD Bank Financial Group, says the four provinces need to work together on areas such a population growth, tourism promotion and pension plans.

Speaking to a business breakfast in Fredericton, McKenna said that as a result of improved highway links in the region, it makes sense for different airports to concentrate on particular destinations, rather than every airport competing for the same business.

He says there also should be a virtual port authority for the region that doles out the work to individual harbours.

McKenna says the global economy is changing at a lightning pace and there needs to be the political will to make needed changes.

Business New Brunswick Minister Greg Byrne says the provincial governments realize the time to act is now, and greater co-operation is achievable.