The Daily Star Ireland
Irish rap group Kneecap have announced plans to pursue legal action against a Canadian government official following claims they say are “wholly untrue and deeply malicious.” The controversy erupted after the trio, who hail from Belfast and Derry, were barred from entering Canada for an upcoming tour.
Ban Announced by Canadian Official
The decision was made public on Friday by Liberal MP Vince Gasparro, a parliamentary secretary, who released a video statement on X. In it, he alleged that Kneecap had “engaged in actions and made statements that are contrary to Canadian values and laws,” further accusing the group of amplifying political violence and showing support for designated terrorist organisations, including Hezbollah and Hamas.
As a result of the ruling, Kneecap’s four scheduled Canadian shows—two in Toronto on October 14 and 15 and two in Vancouver on October 22 and 23—have been cancelled. The group had been due to perform to growing international audiences as part of their expanding tour calendar.
Kneecap’s Response
In a statement released on Instagram, Kneecap rejected the accusations outright. The band insisted that “no member of the band has been convicted of ANY crime in ANY country EVER” and stressed that they have never supported Hamas or Hezbollah. They described Mr. Gasparro’s remarks as defamatory and confirmed that they are preparing legal action.
The group, known for blending Irish language, politics, and social commentary into their music, said the ban not only damages their reputation but also silences their artistic voice on an international stage.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
One of the members, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh—better known by his stage name Mo Chara—is currently facing a charge in the UK related to an alleged display of a Hezbollah flag during a 2024 event. He has denied the accusation, and the case has been adjourned until September 26.
The band argue that citing an unresolved charge to justify sweeping accusations of terrorist sympathies is unjust and politically motivated.
What This Means
The dispute highlights the growing tension between artists who use politically charged expression and governments seeking to draw lines on what constitutes acceptable speech. For Kneecap, the ban represents a major blow to their international reach, while also sparking a broader debate about censorship, free expression, and state power.
With the case in the UK still pending and their vow to pursue legal action in Canada, the fallout from this decision is far from over. What began as a cancelled tour could quickly escalate into an international legal and political battle.
