Tory MP deletes post that claimed cost of living is driving parents to traffic kids

Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri has deleted a post on X that claimed the affordability crisis has driven parents to traffic their kids.

It was deleted after The Canadian Press sent Ferreri questions aboutthe post, which followed a visit to the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) in Peterborough, Ont.

In a statement issued today, Ferreri said her post was "inartfully worded."

Ferreri serves as the Conservatives' critic on families, children and social development.

The Conservative MP saidthat while cost-of-living can increase social problems, it is "in no way" an excuse for human trafficking.

In a statement, the KSAC's executive director said that many clients have told them over the past several decades that they were trafficked by a parent or guardian and that this issue is not new.

Brittany McMillan said the centre does not hold any specific government or party responsible for sexual violence but urges all levels of government to invest in prevention and support for survivors.