By Matthew Russell Lee, Periscope
UNITED NATIONS, May 24 – When the UN belatedly celebrated World Bee Day on May 24, they bragged that the hives they established on the UN's North Lawn produce 250 pounds of honey a year. Inner City Press asked at the noon briefing, Where does the honey go?
The General Assembly President's spokesman said he had anticipated Inner City Press asking that so had inquired. He said that contrary to what had been earlier said, that the honey would be sold in the UN gift shop with the proceeds to a charity, that had not occurred. Inner City Press went to the North Lawn Slovenian sponsored bee event in the afternoon, complete with biodegradable flutes of champagne, and asked one of the beekeepers, who said “We do something with the UN.” But what? Video here.
Later the PGA's Office emailed Inner City Press, "The original idea was for the honey to be sold with the proceeds given to a non-profit which supports sustainable apiaries in developing countries. Currently, however, the honey is not being sold but rather given out as gifts." Inner City Press replied, "Thanks but I have to ask: the 250 pounds of honey is being given out as gifts by who? To whom? At the event today there were some sample containers but nowhere near 250 pounds.So where else has it been given out, and by who?" Hours later it is still not clear. The PGA's Office in its subsequent summary said "the hives are managed by the United Nations Office of Central Support Services." So Secretary General Antonio Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric, who stonewalls questions about nepotism, corruption and sexual harassment cover ups, is in charge? Watch this site.
Follow the honey. Or, take the honey and run. Secretary General Antonio Guterres is, typically, away. But PGA Miroslav Lajcak gave a speech, saying he was glad it was outside so the bees could attend. He said the lesson to be learned from bees is that they are industrious and patriotic. Earlier in the day the North Korea - US talks were cancelled, at least for now. The chief beekeeper said he is “installing” a Slovenian queen to take over the the previous Italian regime. Sort of like the split or shared Security Council seat of Italy, one wag buzzed. One final lesson: don't stand between bees and their hive.
