ⓒ Irish Times
The Irish language rap group Kneecap has achieved a significant legal victory against the UK government. After former Conservative minister Kemi Badenoch unlawfully blocked their funding application, Kneecap took legal action, ultimately winning their case. The UK Department of Business and Trade admitted the initial decision was “unlawful and procedurally unfair,” and will now award Kneecap the €16,000 grant. The group, who arrived at Belfast High Court in a repurposed RUC Land Rover, stated the case was about principles, not money. They will donate the grant to community groups on either side of Belfast’s peace line. DJ Próvaí, a member of Kneecap, described the government’s actions as an “affront to the courts” and a violation of their own laws. The group’s lawyer celebrated the ruling as a victory for arts and culture, and a reaffirmation of the Good Friday Agreement.
