Ireland at the moment is one of the most expensive places in Europe to live in.As for Dublin I hate the place, dont ask me why , I just could never get to like it.
Galway or Cork, now there are 2 great cities, far more laid back in attitude and lifestyle than Dublin and the people are nicer
Work is getting tougher with alot of companies closing, so dont know how you will fare out that way, but hell come on over and enjoy it here for a while. something will always turn up and you wont starve.