Live in Ireland for a year

I want to go live in Ireland for a year, But I dont know the necissary steps to getting there. Where would be a good place to stay? Or to specify more, the cheapest for a while? While there for a year am I able to get a job?

Well I currently have 135 days left til lift off…. Jan 12 it is!
Flight is paid for, just have to get uni out of the way and it will be all focus on planning!

Minimum.

I have set my goal to go in January 2010. I have fleeting fears that I will be so out of my depth and be homesick as hell, and I know I will, like I was when I was first at boarding school. But it passed, and I know it will be the same in Ireland. While there I am going to LIVE! I want it to be the best year of my life to that point. I will also allow my hear to stay open while i’m there. Take it as it comes.. which leads me to goal no. 2….

i’ve been to ireland before but wasn’t there nearly long enough. i’d love to be there for at least a year.