Text of statement by Ontario PC Leader Patrick Brown

Here is the text of Ontario Progressive Leader Patrick Brown’s statement to the media Wednesday night.

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“Ladies and gentlemen.

A couple of hours ago, I learned of troubling allegations about my conduct and character.

I’m here tonight to address them.

First, I want to say: these allegations are false. Every one of them.

I will defend myself as hard as I can, with all the means at my disposal.

I can’t speculate on the motive of my accusers, I can only say they what they are saying is categorically untrue.

It’s never ok for anyone to feel they have been a victim of sexual harassment or feel threatened in any way.

Let me make this clear.

A safe and respectful society is what we expect and deserve.

We need to move forward to eradicate sexual violence and harassment across the province – across the country. Everywhere.

I know that the court of public opinion moves fast. I have instructed my attorneys to ensure that these allegations are addressed where they should be: in a court of law.

In short, I reject these accusation in the strongest possible terms.”