Canada Border Services Agency Disclaims Role in Entry Ban of Hip-Hop Group Kneecap

The controversy surrounding the entry ban of the Irish hip-hop group Kneecap has raised questions about government accountability and transparency. Recently, the Prime Minister’s Office and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) clarified their positions regarding the announcement made by parliamentary secretary Vince Gasparro.

Canada Border Services Agency Disclaims Role in Entry Ban of Hip-Hop Group Kneecap

On September 19, 2023, Gasparro declared that Kneecap’s entry to Canada was deemed “ineligible.” This decision was based on allegations that the group advocated political violence and glorified terrorist organizations. Videos of his announcement have since gained traction on social media, prompting inquiries about its legitimacy.

Official Clarifications and Responses

• The PM’s Office denied involvement in Gasparro’s statements.
• The CBSA confirmed that it was not consulted regarding the announcement.
• Federal officials responded to queries from NDP MP Jenny Kwan, expressing concerns about unclear information.

Kwan specifically questioned the legitimacy of the claims made by Gasparro and sought clarity on who authorized this decision. Meanwhile, Gasparro’s office cited statements from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to support his position.

Kneecap’s Members’ Application Status

The IRCC’s response indicated that one member of Kneecap, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, had his electronic travel authorization (eTA) canceled in August due to allegedly providing incomplete information. However, Óg Ó hAnnaidh remains eligible to reapply in the future. The other two members, John James Ó Dochartaigh and Naoise Ó Cairealláin, have their eTA applications under review and are advised not to travel to Canada.

Kwan expressed frustration at the unclear timeline for the eTA review process, which has led her to question whether possible delays are a stalling tactic.

Concerns and Calls for Investigation

Amid rising scrutiny, Conservative Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman accused Gasparro of potentially misrepresenting the facts. She suggested that such lapses could warrant disciplinary action in other professional settings, calling for a parliamentary investigation into the matter. Kwan labeled Gasparro a “rogue Liberal MP” and has sought responses from Immigration Minister Lena Diab regarding potential responsibilities pertaining to Gasparro’s actions, but has not yet received a reply.

Kneecap’s Statement and Public Support

Kneecap has publicly stated that it does not support any terrorist organizations or advocate violence against any group, reiterating its commitment to the Palestinian cause without extremism. The group is also considering legal action against Gasparro, who claims he is not concerned about potential lawsuits.

Organizations such as the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, alongside B’nai Brith Canada, have endorsed the government’s position as a necessary step against perceived risks. This unfolding situation not only highlights the specific case surrounding Kneecap but also invokes broader discussions about free speech, political expression, and the decision-making processes within the government.