Latest news with #Anstey
Daily Mirror
23-07-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
'I don't know how I'm going to put food on table let alone days out in summer holidays'
Almost half of parents (48%) are more worried about being able to afford things for their children this summer holiday compared to last year, grim research shows Almost half of parents (48%) are more worried about being able to afford things for their children this summer holiday compared to last year, grim research shows. This rises to 69% for lone parents, a survey by the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) found. Some 45% of parents say the cost of childcare is a challenge over the summer and 29% say they have to borrow money or go into debt to cover these costs, the study found. Parents said they will struggle to pay for food and snacks and other basics for their children, such as sun cream, as well as fun activities like sports clubs, a trip to the beach or small treats like an ice cream. Some 44% of parents said they will likely use a foodbank this summer holiday and two in five families (39%) said they would likely use a clothing bank. And more than half of parents (52%) said they were worried about the continued pressure on living standards taking a toll on their children's mental health this summer, while 48% said they were worried about their child's physical health. One parent told the survey: 'I don't know how I'm going to put food on table let alone days out.' One mum, speaking about their son, said: 'The money is just enough to pay the bills and buy essentials. I do feel for him because as a family we can't enjoy outings or short breaks during the summer holidays (which were fun at one time).' Another parent added: 'It [the summer holiday] should be a happy time, but for many people, it's just another mountain to climb. I wish there was more low-cost or free help for families during the holidays. We do our best, but it doesn't always feel like it's enough.' Head of education policy at CPAG Kate Anstey called for the two-child benefit limit to be scrapped. CPAG research estimates that ditching the Tory-era policy, which restricts claims for Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit to the first two children, would lift 350,000 children out of poverty and mean 700,000 children are in less deep poverty. Ms Anstey said: 'This research shows there will be more worry than wonder this summer for millions of desperate families who can't make ends meet. Ministers have promised better living standards and opportunity for all but with children facing another summer cut off from fun and friends - much more action is clearly needed. 'Government's autumn child poverty strategy must restore investment in support for families – including abolition of the two-child limit – otherwise a generation of children will be left behind.' A government spokesman said: 'We recognise the school holidays can be a pressurised time for parents, which is why this government is putting pounds back in parents' pockets both during the holidays and in term time. 'We are also continuing to fund free holiday clubs through the Holiday Activities and Food programme which provides six weeks of activities and meals for any child from a low-income family who needs it.' ::: Survation surveyed 1,580 UK parents on income-related benefits with at least one child aged 4-18 years for CPAG between July 10-17.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
GDI raises additional $11.5 million to scale up EV battery anode production
Battery materials startup GDI said on Tuesday it has raised an additional $11.5 million in Series A funding to scale up production of silicon anodes for electric vehicle batteries in the United States and Europe. The Rochester, New York-based company said the additional funding was led by Helios Climate Ventures , Impact NY, and InnoEnergy and brings its total Series A raise to over $20 million. GDI says its anodes provide 30per cent more energy density than conventional graphite anodes and charge times of under 15 minutes for EVs. CEO Rob Anstey said the funding will help the company scale up production at its pilot plant in the Netherlands within the next 24 months to start providing anodes to battery manufacturers . Anstey said GDI has already signed a joint-development agreement with an EV cell manufacturer , which should mean its anodes will be in battery cells in drones and medical devices within the next 24 to 30 months and in EVs on the road by 2030. He declined to say which cell manufacturer GDI has signed a contract with. "Normally it takes about five years" to get into an EV program with an automaker," Antsey said. "We do believe we can be in the next generation of EVs and have a design win by 2030." The company is one of a number of startups developing silicon anodes, including Nexeon, Group14 Technologies and Sila Nanotechnologies, all touting better performance than graphite. China refines more than 90per centof the world's graphite into the material used in almost all EV battery anodes. Last year the European Investment Bank provided 20 million euros ($22.5 million) in loans and equity to GDI to scale up production and the additional funding is intended to match part of that loan facility.
Business Wire
14-05-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
NSF Research Shows Americans Demand Greater Clarity and Standardization in Food Labeling
ANN ARBOR, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- NSF, a leading global public health and safety organization, today released key findings from a survey focused on understanding the effectiveness of US food labeling and its role in consumer decisions. 'Health and wellness continue to be a focus for most consumers, and with the growing popularity of label-review apps and lack of critical food labeling information in e-commerce, NSF's research demonstrates that many consumers are reading labels with a more critical eye,' said Michelle Anstey, Regulatory Manager at NSF. 'The food industry must respond to these evolving consumer demands, prioritizing more transparent, accessible and reliable labeling practices as regulations are updated and introduced.' The research, which surveyed 1,000 Americans, highlights several challenges, including a lack of confidence in food labels, desired improvements in labeling and the need for standardized sustainability metrics. Key Findings: Labels are a key touchpoint: 83% of US consumers read food labels before making a purchase decision. 64% pay more attention to labels compared to five years ago. When reading food labels, adults first look for the expiration date (86%), ingredients list (79%), health claims (78%), allergen warnings (77%) and country of origin (77%) At the same time, confidence is lacking: Only 16% of adults find health claims very trustworthy. Just 37% rate food labeling in the US better than labeling in other countries. Consumers want clearer labels: 1 in 5 struggle to interpret nutritional information on food labels. Respondents want to see more detailed processing information (82%) and comprehensive allergen information (80%) on the food they're purchasing. Sustainability is top-of-mind: 67% consider sustainability factors important in food purchasing decisions yet only 39% feel current food labels adequately address sustainability. 69 % would like to see ethical sourcing information on product labels. 'NSF's consumer survey results point us in the right direction as we revisit and improve food labeling in 2025,' added Anstey. 'By improving transparency and standardization, we can better communicate with consumers and support a more sustainable, trustworthy food supply chain.' Easy to interpret, validated food labeling can help consumers make educated decisions related to diet and well-being. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 68% of people recognize healthy eating habits as an important factor in improving a person's chance for a long and healthy life. 1 Recent regulations emphasize the increased criticism of food labels among consumers, including bans of some chemicals of concern, such as Red No. 3, in some states, as well as the proposal for an FDA rule that would require front-of-package nutritional information. NSF supports food manufacturers and retailers with innovative solutions that meet consumer expectations and regulatory labeling requirements. The organization also validates health claims, such as Organic, non-GMO, Gluten-Free, plant based, Raised Without Antibiotics and more, helping businesses to differentiate their products while increasing sales. Download the white paper. NSF NSF is an independent, global services organization dedicated to improving human and planet health for more than 80 years by developing public health standards and providing world-class testing, inspection, certification, advisory services and digital solutions to the food, nutrition, water, life sciences and consumer goods industries. NSF serves 40,000 clients in 110 countries and is a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center on Food Safety, Water Quality and Medical Device Safety. 1 Alarming trends call for action to define the future role of food in nation's health, American Heart Association, 2024
CBC
29-04-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Meet Newfoundland and Labrador's new MPs-elect
This year's federal election has shaken up Newfoundland and Labrador's political landscape. At least one red riding has turned blue, newcomers have entered the arena, and it's all in the middle of global trade uncertainty. "I think Canada is stronger and more united than it's ever been," outgoing Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey said Tuesday morning. Furey says Monday night's results supported a "strong government" that is ready to take on U.S. President Donald Trump. Six of the MP-elects spoke with CBC News after their fate became known. The province is still waiting on votes to be counted in Terra Nova-The Peninsulas, a previously Liberal riding where party candidate Anthony Germain holds a narrow lead over Conservative Jonathan Rowe as of Tuesday afternoon. Elections Canada said the uncounted votes are special ballots cast by those living or working outside their riding, and that it may take until Wednesday until that race is decided. Philip Earle, Labrador Philip Earle is the new face of Labrador in Parliament. Longtime Liberal MP Yvonne Jones chose to step away from politics this time around, making way for fresh new candidates. It's his first time in politics, but the Liberal MP-to-be says he's worked with all levels of government as a businessman. Earle is better known to the community as the vice-president of Air Borealis and a member of the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Rotary Club. "The word 'surreal' wouldn't describe it," Earle told CBC, reacting to his win. His roots in coastal Labrador helped him connect with potential constituents, Earle said. He has also worked in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Labrador West. Earle said he intends to continue Jones's work when he is sworn into Parliament — he said he'll tackle issues like cost of living, access to health care and housing. "[Working] within Indigenous communities and ... for Indigenous businesses allowed my resumé to demonstrate that I knew the issues," he added. Earle was elected to the Labrador seat with about 51 per cent of the vote. Carol Anstey, Long Range Mountains The western Newfoundland riding of Long Range Mountains was one to watch. Conservative candidate Carol Anstey previously lost to former Liberal MP Gudie Hutchings, but came out on top this time around. "Knowing that I could potentially be the first woman to ever serve in Newfoundland and Labrador as a Conservative, it was one of the deciding factors that made me really want to continue to push and work for this win," Anstey said Monday night. She won just about 50 per cent of the Long Range Mountain vote against political newcomer Don Bradshaw who ran for the Liberal Party. Bradshaw won nearly 43 per cent. Anstey said some of her success was thanks to her connection to Alberta. She said many residents on the western portion of the island fly in and out of Alberta for work, and Anstey herself lived there for some time. "They want to see candidates be successful over here," the MP-elect told CBC News. "There was financial support, but then there was also regular conversations, regular text messages and just constant communication," said Anstey. Western Newfoundland's next MP wants her constituency to remain hopeful. She said people are often fearful of change, which is why she thinks it was a Liberal stronghold for so long. Anstey said she will fight for Canadians as Trump continues to threaten the country with tariffs and annexation. But she also told CBC that she has the community at the front of her mind — she grew up there, and says she knows what the riding needs. Clifford Small, Central Newfoundland Clifford Small was the first Conservative candidate of the night to secure his seat once again. Small entered federal politics in 2021 by edging Liberal Scott Simms out of the riding by a slim margin of 281 votes. He's excited to be back. "My heart is bursting," he told CBC News as supporters cheered him on Monday night. "It's a very humbling victory and I'd like to thank the people," he said. "I can't thank them enough — and my volunteers." Small plans to work on the same issues that his constituents were concerned about in December. He said tackling the cost of living and crime are at the top of his agenda when he makes his way back to Ottawa. "The blue wave started, I think," Small said Monday night. The Conservative incumbent won 54 per cent of the Central Newfoundland vote. Doctor and Liberal candidate Lynette Powell was close behind with 43 per cent. Paul Connors, Avalon Paul Connors is humbled, excited and "ready to get to work" for the Avalon riding, even though he says he's a little tired from the election night rush. As previous Avalon MP Ken McDonald's former executive assistant, Connors says he has a good understanding of what people want in the riding. "People would really like to see the cost of living down," he said. "Close to that is Donald Trump," and fighting the trade war, Connors told The St. John's Morning Show host Jen White. The Liberal candidate beat out the Conservatives' Steve Kent by over 7,000 votes, adding up to about 58 per cent overall. Connors owed that success to his team who helped him make phone calls and knock many doors in the riding that stretches from Bay Roberts to Trepassey. The MP-elect said he's prepared to head to Ottawa "quickly," where he says he's looking forward to working with the other new members of Parliament. Tom Osborne, Cape Spear The new Cape Spear riding formed in 2022, consisting much of the former riding St. John's South-Mount Pearl. Liberal Seamus O'Regan held that seat but stepped down from cabinet without seeking re-election last year, making way for an all-new group of candidates. Former provincial government mainstay Tom Osborne is set to take the first seat for Cape Spear. "There was only one commitment that I made and it was the same commitment that I made through the eight elections that I won provincially," Osborne said as he took to a podium at his campaign headquarters. "If you give me the honour of representing you in Ottawa, I will do it to the best of my ability." He told CBC that the transition from provincial to federal politics will be a big adjustment, but he's up for it. "I'm really invigorated by the challenge and I really want to get at the work," he said. Osborne won a staggering 68 per cent of the riding's votes. Joanne Thompson, St. John's East Joanne Thompson is the second Newfoundland and Labrador MP heading back to Ottawa this year. Thompson told CBC Tuesday that she was entering a landscape that looked "completely different" than her last term. She still pushed forward. "I am tired today," she said. "But I'm so pleased, and I'm really excited about the work that we're going to be able to do for Canadians." The Liberal incumbent won by a landslide, with 62 per cent of the votes in St. John's East. Thompson expressed thanks to her volunteers for an "absolutely amazing" run, and said the opposing parties were also "incredibly respectful" throughout the campaign. She says she, too, is ready to roll up her sleeves and stand up to U.S. aggression. Canada's strenuous relationship with the United States isn't the only change in Thompson's return to Parliament. She'll also work under Prime Minister Mark Carney. "I'm excited that he is the prime minister," she said. "I think he certainly is the leader we need at this moment, and I have great respect for him and I really look forward to serving in his government."
CBC
29-04-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Carol Anstey is the 1st woman slated to become a Conservative MP in N.L.
The Conservative Party has added a seat in Newfoundland and Labrador after Monday's election, a win that marks a first in the province's history. Conservative MP-elect Carol Anstey won Long Range Mountains by a margin of more than 3,000 votes as of 2 a.m. NT Tuesday over Liberal candidate Don Bradshaw. She's the first woman to represent Newfoundland and Labrador in Ottawa as a Tory. Real estate agent Anstey took the seat previously held by Liberal MP Gudie Hutchings. Anstey campaigned in 2021 and lost the race by only around 1,800 votes. She said that tight margin motivated her to run again. "[It] made me really want to continue to push and work for this win tonight," said Anstey. Anstey said she is already thinking about policy changes she wants to see in Ottawa. "I really want to see some good fisheries policy move forward. I really want to see some natural resource development in this province," said Anstey. The last time a Conservative held a seat in the area was in 1978, in the riding called Humber-St. George's-St. Barbie. The seat was held by Tory MP Jack Parshall from 1968 to 1978. Longtime reporter Bradshaw said he isn't sure how he lost the seat. "We were getting good response at the doors and our phone calls were indicating that we we had a lot of support," he said. He recounted his time as a journalist, when he asked a losing politician about what went wrong, and the politician responded that maybe people weren't telling the truth at the doors. "Maybe that was the case here as well," Bradshaw said. Meanwhile, in Central Newfoundland, MP Clifford Small kept his job in Ottawa, winning over Liberal Lynette Powell by about 4,000 votes. When Small first won the seat in 2021, he was the first Conservative elected in the province since 2011. During his campaign, Small said cost of living and crime were the main issues he heard at the doors. He said he anticipated the win. "The people have spoken," he said. After losing the Central Newfoundland seat Liberal candidate Lynette Powell said she hopes Small will take care of the district. "You go out there and you take care of the people of Central Newfoundland because they need you," she said. The Liberals held onto their spots in the Avalon, Cape Spear, St. John's East and Labrador ridings. New faces Paul Connors and Tom Osborne took the Avalon and Cape Spear seats respectively, beating Conservatives Steve Kent and Corey Curtis. In Labrador, Philip Earle also beat Ella Wallace by just over 8 per cent of the vote. In St. John's East, Joanne Thompson was re-elected by a landslide, beating out the Conservative's David Brazil and NDP's Mary Shortall.
