Kneecap Launch Legal Action Against Canadian MP Vince Gasparro
Irish rap group Kneecap have initiated legal proceedings against Canadian Member of Parliament Vince Gasparro following what the group describes as “wholly untrue and deeply malicious” public statements. The lawsuit stems from Gasparro’s September proclamation that Kneecap was banned from entering Canada, a decision he attributed to a prior terror charge against band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara.
Gasparro had stated that Kneecap ”amplified political violence and publicly displayed support for terrorist organisations such as hezbollah and Hamas,” characterizing their actions as “dangerous endorsements of violence and hate.” The initial ban referenced Ó hAnnaidh’s arrest in London for displaying a Hezbollah flag at a concert. However, that charge was later dismissed on a technicality.
Recent documents revealed this week indicate that neither the Prime Minister’s office nor the Canada Border Services Agency were consulted or involved in Gasparro’s announcement, suggesting he acted independently of the Canadian government.
In a statement posted to instagram, Kneecap confirmed the legal action, writing: “Today we are serving legal action against you. As we said, we will be relentless in defending ourselves against outrageous and baseless accusations.” The group further stated their intention to donate any financial recovery from the lawsuit to assist child amputees in Gaza.
Kneecap also addressed ongoing “compliance issues” preventing their entry into Canada, expressing hope to resume touring the country by 2026.The group has been vocal in its support for Palestine and criticism of Israel.
The legal dispute follows Kneecap’s recent release of “No Comment,” a collaboration with Sub Focus, which addresses their previous legal battle in the UK.
