1. No. You need an approved Labour Market Opinion from the employer, that s/he gets from HRSDC after advertising the position. Then you can apply for a work permit at the Port of Entry.
2. If you under 35 you can apply for a 1 year working Holiday visa. See: http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/ireland-irlande/experience_canada_experience/working_holiday-vacances_travail.aspx?view=d