The Poor and Hungry Can Wait - We Need Art

Here is a perfect example of how the people that scream the rich need to give their profits to the poor don’t think they should do it themselves.

I’m not talking about American Liberals this time, I’m referring to the United Nations.

From the AP:

A $23 million ceiling painting featuring hundreds of dangling icicle shapes that has been criticized for its hefty price tag was unveiled Tuesday at the U.N. offices in Geneva.

The Spanish Foreign Ministry says the government is funding 40 percent of the costs, with the rest footed by private-sector donors. Of the public money, 500,000 euros (US$633,000) comes from a budget for overseas development aid and international organizations like the United Nations.

Spain’s conservative opposition Popular Party complained that this means money was diverted from projects to alleviate poverty and boost health care in poorer countries, but the ministry insists the funding for Barcelo’s work was separate.

The dispute reached Parliament last week, with Popular Party lawmaker Gonzalo Robles asking "how many thousands of children could have been looked after" with the money spent on the artwork. The ruling Socialists accused him of twisting the facts.

40% of $23 million is $9.2 million.  I have to agree with the Popular Party on this one.  That money, no matter how it was earmarked, could have helped multiple families in multiple countries.  Why was ceiling art more important than spreading the wealth?

*HatTip to Kristi

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