The Irish Government will tomorrow take up the EU Presidency for the sixth time.
During the coming six months the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern will chair meetings of EU leaders and become the public face of Europe.
Taking over from Italian premier Mr Silvio Berlusconi, Mr Ahern has prioritised the promotion of economic growth, through innovation and employment initiatives and improving relations with the United States.
Following the collapse of talks over an EU constitution earlier this month, Mr Ahern suggested a cooling-off period would be required for the Poles and Spanish who blocked a deal because of their concern about a loss of voting power.
However, the issue in has moved onto the agenda again and the Irish presidency will, at the very least, be expected to progress matters significantly.
The development of common policies on asylum, immigration and EU foreign policy will also form a significant progression in EU integration.
But by far the most historically significant element of the Irish presidency occurs in May when ten accession countries will fo0rmally join the the Union increasing it to a 25-nation bloc.
The eyes of the world will be on Ireland the official ceremony takes place on May 1st. It will be the largest single expansion of the Union since its creation.
Mr Ahern will lead the European delegation at five international summits. An EU/US summit is expected during the six-month term which could mean US President George W Bush visiting Ireland. However security concerns may yet the meeting held outside the country.
But there will be over 100 meetings held in Ireland, many of which will take place outside Dublin. Counties hosting events and meetings include Dublin, Kerry, Waterford, Offaly, Wicklow, Kildare, Galway, and Cork.