The Canadian government has banned Belfast rap trio Kneecap from entering the country, accusing them of glorifying terrorist organisations. The band, known for their provocative lyrics and pro-Palestine stance, announced they would take legal action against what they called 'wholly untrue and deeply malicious' allegations.
Vince Gasparro, Canada's parliamentary secretary for combatting crime, announced the ban in a social media video on Friday. He stated that the group had 'amplified political violence and publicly displayed support for terrorist organisations such as Hezbollah and Hamas,' adding that these were not protected forms of expression under Canadian law.
Kneecap responded on X, denying any criminal convictions and announcing legal action. They said, 'No member of Kneecap has been convicted of ANY crime in ANY country EVER.' The band also accused Gasparro of trying to silence their opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza, vowing to donate any damages from the lawsuit to child amputees in Gaza.
The trio have faced controversy this year, including an incident where a band member appeared to shout 'Up Hamas, up Hezbollah' at a gig, and another where Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was charged with displaying a Hezbollah flag. However, police took no further action after investigating their Glastonbury set in June.
Ó hAnnaidh is due back in court on 26 September, where a judge will rule on whether he has jurisdiction to try the case. The band expressed regret to Canadian fans, saying they have played in Canada many times without issue and will continue to oppose genocide.
