Dangling Conversations

Colour commentary on the world we live in

Leave it to business in Orleans

Posted 09 Sep, 2005 at 05:42 by blue in /World | Permanent link

Say what you will, and in no way to diminish the work done by relief agencies or even the governments, but here is an example of how corporate, capitalistic enterprise can often be more effective than government.

When you follow the link you may need to click it again to launch the pop up. It links to CNN's video player.

In a nutshell, the VP of Starwood hotels within a few short days, ensured survival of guests and staff alike... has repair crews in the city... provided a secure headquarters for police operations... has three of the only buildings with full power in the city... and expects to have them repaired and back to 100% fully functioning within another week.

We have the technology... we can rebuild it.

When there is a buck to be made, it would seem that people can be extremely efficient. One almost wonders if the best plan the government could have had for the evacuation and restoration of the city wouldn't have been to simply take the money they are setting aside for relief and put out to tender a contract for evacuation. Some may think it sounds sick to put a price tag on human life, but I can't help but wonder if it wouldn't have attracted a highly efficient response from someone looking to profit.

(okay... you can start the flaming response now ;) )

Comments (2 comments so far)
I really don't like what the government is doing...fine for folks who have lots of money...but still Concentration camp anyone?
Posted 2005/9/9 08:43:11 by Wendy
You're aware, I trust, that the planning for evacuation and the like was in fact outsourced to a private firm in Baton Rouge? And that, as far as anyone can tell, this didn't help?
Posted 2005/9/9 11:36:20 by Matt
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