Paris Olympics Sparks Outrage  

Controversial calls have been made for this year’s Olympics Games. On one hand, the Internation Olympic Committee (IOC) has banned Russia and Belarus from competing in the Games due to their involvement in Ukraine, however many are both upset and angry at the IOC allowing Israel to participate. 

On the other, Dutch beach volleyballer Steven van de Velde has been under immense public scrutiny for being allowed to participate in the Games. In 2016, van de Velde was sentenced to four years in prison after being convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl. After serving only part of his jail-time in England, he was sent back to the Netherlands where his sentence was adjusted under Dutch law. The volleyballer only served a combined thirteen months in prison. At an IOC news conference, Spokesperson’s Services Director Mark Adams stated this: 

“Not to excuse it in any way but this took place, I think, 10 years ago and I think, as a general rule I think we need to allow for the possibility of rehabilitation.” 

The International Volleyball Federation also commented on van de Velde’s qualification to play in Paris and said that it was unable to stop the Netherlands from sending him as he qualified in the usual way.  

The reaction around the world has been one of shock and disgust at van de Velde’s appearance at this year’s Games. In a statement to Sky News, The Survivors Trust had this to say: 

“As a society we have to start embracing a zero-tolerance approach to this heinous and costly crime.” 

The Dutch volleyballer has been repeatedly booed during his appearances at the Paris Games.  

2024 Tax Cuts 

Last week, the tax cuts campaigned by the National Party officially came into effect. Finance Minister Nicola Willis declared that around 3.5 million New Zealanders would benefit from this. 

Kamala Harris for President? 

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to be the Democratic presidential candidate, with Donald Trump representing the Republicans. If Harris wins the 2024 election, she will become the first female president of the United States of America.

State of Origin Star Questioned 

Queensland Maroons’ player Selwyn Cobbo is under investigation in relation to an alleged domestic disturbance. His club, the Brisbane Broncos, issued this statement last week: “Brisbane Broncos were today made aware of a matter involving one of our players, which the club has referred to the NRL Integrity Unit”.

Goodbye Peanut Allergies 

In Australia, babies with peanut allergies will be offered treatment to build immunity to the condition. Under the supervision of select paediatric hospitals, eligible babies will be given gradually increasing doses of peanut powder every day for at least two years, to reduce sensitivity.