Barrie’s NDP candidate has accused the Conservatives of planting audience members during Wednesday’s all candidates meeting at Georgian College.

Myrna Clark from the NDP sent out a press release to say a recognized member of Patrick Brown’s team stepped up to the mic and asked a specific question about his activities in the community.

“Patrick Brown has insulted the democratic process,” said Clark in the release. “The purpose of a candidate meeting is to provide fair time for each party to better explain how they intend to improve our communities. Patrick Brown’s actions robbed students of their opportunity to present authentic questions from the floor.”

Clark said a few students – who were waiting in line to ask a question – approached her afterwards to talk about health care.

In response to Clark’s press release, Brown told The Advance that he’s been involved with students at Georgian College, and has built up constituent support.

“The format of the meeting was that people could line up to ask questions. The meeting was an hour-and-a-half, and there were eight people who weren’t able to ask their questions (because time ran out),” said Brown. “Myrna should complain to Georgian College, not blame me.”

Brown said NDP and Green supporters also asked questions, and his supporters shouldn’t be blamed for monopolizing the debate.