The Canadian government has banned the Irish-language rap group Kneecap from the country, saying the group has endorsed political violence and terrorism.

The group has faced criticism for political statements seeming to glorify militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.

Hungary previously banned the group.

Liberal MP Vince Gasparro, parliamentary secretary for combating crime, said Kneecap has "publicly displayed support for terrorist organisations such as Hezbollah and Hamas" that goes beyond artistic expression.

"Canada stands firmly against hate speech, incitement to violence and the glorification of terrorism," Gasparro said in a video on social media.

"Political debate and free speech are vital to our democracy, but open endorsements of terrorist groups are not free speech."

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