'Jobless Paddy' sells himself on billboard

DUBLIN - Tens of thousands of Irish people are leaving their debt-shattered land because they can't find work. But one frustrated job hunter, 26-year-old Feilim Mac An Iomaire, has refused - and captured the nation's imagination with an inventive PR stunt that highlights his plight.

"SAVE ME FROM EMIGRATION," reads Mac An Iomaire's billboard in the heart of Dublin, the focal point for a novel social media-driven campaign that advertises his 10-month search for work and desire to stay in Ireland.

The effort has cost him about 2,000 euros ($2,800) - and given him a priceless global spotlight for his skills as a marketer and dealmaker.