Former Eurovision Song Contest winner, Dana, has spoken out against this years Irish entry, Dustin The Turkey.

Many Irish viewers will know Dustin from The Den on RTE2, which is similar to UK’s CBeebies or CITV. Dustin will be singing ‘Irelande Douze Pointe’ after being selected by TV viewers last week.

Dana told the BBC: “I just think it’s making a mockery of the contest and if we think it’s such a big joke then let’s get out of it.

“Certainly don’t put a turkey in a trolley up against singers who are desperately trying to make a way in their career.”

She added: “The problem is they love puppets in Europe. If, God forbid he wins, we’ll probably have more puppets than people in next year’s Eurovision.”

RTE deputy commissioning editor Julian Vignoles defended Dustin saying:

“The contest has changed over the years, it’s moved with the times, televoting has brought it to a different level. Something that makes an impact on the stage is as likely to win as a well-crafted song.”

I have to admit that I once owned a Dustin album, and not only can the turkey sing, but he can rap and dance too. He really is an all round entertainer, and I for one am backing him on his Eurovision journey!