Eurovision has appointed Conor McNally, a youth newscaster with Irish broadcaster RTÉ, as its social media co-presenter for the Eurovision Debate, which will be aired live in more than 30 countries on 15 May.

A young, talented TV journalist, Conor will present the online conversation around the Eurovision Debate, which will for the first time gather all five European Commission presidential candidates in a live televised face-off. 

European voters are an integral part of the project, making their voices heard via the hashtag #TellEUROPE on all major social media platforms. The Eurovision Debate team is drawing on their opinions and questions to formulate the themes to be debated.

During the 90-minute programme, Conor’s social media segments will complement the lead role of Eurovision Debate moderator Monica Maggioni. Together they will form a visually and intellectually appealing pairing that echoes the rich variety of the European electorate.

Commenting on his appointment, Conor McNally said: “European politics can seem inaccessible, but social media is a really interesting way of getting people involved. Most of us use social media to share our opinions, but now those ideas and questions can help shape the debate on the future of the EU. This event will give people of my generation a chance to present their views in the way they feel most comfortable – at the touch of their fingers. For me personally, it’s an exciting adventure which will bring me right to the heart of European democracy and as a young journalist that is a very appealing prospect.”

Conor McNally, 23, worked as a news journalist at regional Irish radio station KCLR96FM before joining RTÉ’s news2day programme, an afternoon bulletin for younger viewers.

Follow the Eurovision Debate on Twitter, on Facebook and via all social media platforms using #TellEUROPE. More information is available at www.eurovisiondebate.tv.