Spoof ad for new leader a big hit
One day late of being the perfect April Fool joke, the vacancy plug was first posted on Wednesday in the wake of Bertie Ahern’s shock announcement.
In its first 24 hours, the ad had attracted more than 135,000 hits — a figure that has since grown quicker than a TD’s waistline.
The job on offer is described as “Leader” of “Ireland Inc” and notes the taoiseach’s current salary of about €310,000 annually. The job comes on a permanent contract, “subject to five-year reviews” otherwise known as general elections.
Benefits listed include a company car and driver; subsidised canteen, bar and teacart service; an allowance for make-up; and a minimum 90 days of holidays.
“No experience required, though good sporting knowledge an advantage, particularly an understanding of the offside rule,” the ad states.
The ad was quickly scripted by RecruitIreland staff at its Cork headquarters and placed deep within the jobs database.
“It’s just spiralled,” said marketing manager Emma Henry, who said the company has received no complaints and more than a few seriously worded applications.
But applicants need certain qualities to be taoiseach, the ad indicates.
“You will report to the nation on a daily basis. The ideal candidate will have a head for figures, the energy to motivate his/her team, undermine the opposition, and be able to work well under pressure,” the ad says.
The successful applicant must be stronger in one category than Mr Ahern, who repeatedly failed to recall details of his 1990s finances on the witness stand.
“A good memory is essential,” the ad advises.
