Irish rap ensemble Kneecap has not yet received any official notification from the Canadian government regarding their exclusion from entering the country, as confirmed to CBC News. This follows a statement made by Liberal MP Vince Gasparro in a widely circulated social media video on Friday. The band’s manager, Dan Lambert, mentioned that the only directive they have received is through Gasparro’s online post.
Despite reaching out to various government departments, CBC News has not obtained further information about the decision beyond Gasparro’s initial announcement on behalf of the Government of Canada. Gasparro accused the group of promoting political violence and expressing support for organizations such as Hezbollah and Hamas, actions he claims are in conflict with Canadian values and laws.
Immigration Minister Lena Diab declined to comment on the band’s status in Canada, stating her inability to discuss individual cases. Lambert expressed surprise at the situation, emphasizing that Kneecap has previously performed in Canada and currently faces travel restrictions only in Hungary.
One of the band members, Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, known as Mo Chara onstage, is facing terrorism charges in the UK for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London performance in November 2024. Lambert is confident that the band will succeed in court regarding this issue.
Kneecap refuted Gasparro’s accusations and announced their intention to take legal action against him. Consequently, their upcoming Canadian tour dates for next month have been canceled.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) declined to disclose any decision regarding Kneecap’s entry into Canada, citing privacy concerns. The department emphasized that all individuals seeking entry must meet eligibility requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, with assessment conducted on a case-by-case basis.
The IRCC did not elaborate on Gasparro’s video post or the reasons behind it. Despite attempts to contact Gasparro, the Justice Department, and the Prime Minister’s Office, no responses were received. Justice Minister Sean Fraser, when asked about Kneecap’s legal actions, directed inquiries to the appropriate department.
Under Canadian law, individuals may be denied entry for various reasons, including involvement in espionage, terrorism, or criminal activities, as well as membership in criminal organizations or endangering public health.
