Worthwhile or not?

Stuff reports:

Government claims that last year’s America’s Cup campaign has paid for itself more than twice over have been criticised by the Taxpayers’ Union.

Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce yesterday released an independent report into the “direct and indirect benefits” of entering the high-speed yachting regatta.

“From a $36m taxpayer investment, the evaluation shows an estimated positive impact of $87m to the New Zealand economy,” Joyce said.

However, Taxpayers’ Union executive director Jordan Williams said there was no reason to celebrate the funding of a sport for rich men.

“The analysis is based on the questionable assumption that private money would not have flowed into Team New Zealand without taxpayers coughing up,” he said.

Do you think the funding of Team New Zealand is a good economic decision?