According to the National Post, the European Union is about to implement a program based on the thought that it is a human right to go on vacation.
No, I don't mean "have vacation days" from work. That's a whole other ball of wax (I'll leave the debate about whether that's a "human right" to others for now). I'm talking about *going* on vacation.
"The European Union has declared travelling a human right, and is launching a scheme to subsidize vacations with taxpayers' dollars for those too poor to afford their own trips."
Ok, let me get this straight. They want the European taxpayer to foot the bill for people to travel, because people have a human right to go places? Who would qualify for this?
"The plan -- just who gets to enjoy the travel package has yet to be determined -- would see taxpayers footing some of the vacation bill for seniors, youths between the ages of 18 and 25, disabled people, and families facing "difficult social, financial or personal" circumstances. The disabled and elderly can also be accompanied by one other person. The EU and its taxpayers are slated to fund 30% of the cost of these tours, which could range from youth exploring abandoned factories and power plants in Manchester to retirees taking discount trips to Madrid, all in the name of cultural appreciation."
Does anybody else have a tremendous problem with this? Is it just me, or has the definition of "human rights" been watered down by these constant trivial complaints? I wonder if the people of Greece are happy with this decision. They're having a bit of their own problems right now, and I know I'd be really pissed off to see my EU tax money spent to subsidize other people's vacations rather than keeping it in the country to help with our own financial problems.
I can't think of any better way to bankrupt a country (or a Union, in this case).
And, most importantly since we're heading down this Euro path too, when will it be our turn? Like Mark Steyn says:
"C'mon, Nancy, Harry, I'm sure the CBO could run the numbers and calculate that having 100 million Americans out of the country sipping margaritas in Tahiti significantly reduces the deficit."
I've got a few choice places in mind that I could go to.
Update #1: Ed Morrissey has an interesting take on this whole thing. Is part of it European protectionism?
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There's only one thing to say WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TOOOO?
ReplyDeleteNow that's just silly.
ReplyDeleteEveryone in Europe knows the EU is barmy... well, those outside Europe know it as well! :-D
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to see my readers are all on the ball!
ReplyDeleteMy first thought.
ReplyDeleteI want to move to Europe if someone else would pay for my vacation.
My second thought.
You (being me) are a disturbed soul. What in the world is wrong with your thoughts?
This is very disturbing. You're right. Watering down the human rights.
don't knock it - the power plants of manchester are a remarkable visit :)
ReplyDeleteDuane: Who wouldn't want to? Until you realize what it's going to do to the rest of your society. Heck, it would be attractive to me! I'd love to go to Europe.
ReplyDeleteDarts: I'm sure they are...or maybe the coal mines of Wales? That is the stereotype, isn't it? :)