We started a new project a year or two ago and evaluated using Perl,Python Ruby and the main factor in the reason to use Perl was that the libraries for our particular usage cases where better in Perl than the others at that time. For LDAP and SNMP in particular there exists Pure Perl Libraries that are very mature, at the time similar libraries for Ruby and Python where just wrappers around C classes and not as mature (Might be different now).
Java might have been a good choice in this regard as well but our team was used to using Dynamic languages.
I would suggest that anyone looking at a particular language should consider what they want to achieve and then investigate the existing libraries etc to complete that task.
Having committed to using Perl we have had no regrets things like Moose and roles IMHO put it on par with Languages like Python and Ruby.
Edit: Formatting
Looks like a good segway to my startup www.decideall.com (Honestly I have no connection to the OP!). It is an attempt to make Decision Making more rational.
I have an idea and I would like to work on it full time but I have a family to support. The idea will not make money until it reaches a critical mass of users. If I got funding it would allow me to bridge that gap. That is the reason I would seek funding.