The Taoiseach hopes the DUP will adopt an "enabling, not a disabling role", in the forthcoming review of the Belfast Agreement.
Mr Ahern said: "I will be as constructive as I possibly can and look forward to trying to deal with the party. I know its position has tended towards not meeting the Irish Government."
But he said the DUP had put forward four issues in the election. It was seeking an arrangement that would ensure stability, accountability, an efficient and effective arrangement. The DUP "left out the word 'inclusive'. If it adds that to its agenda, we can all work towards finding a solution."
The Government "will attempt to engage in dialogue with all the parties". Mr Ahern had stated publicly that "we will be glad to meet them as soon as possible".
The DUP and other parties wanted to "work out their own tactics". The DUP had never "engaged in meetings with the Irish Government. Mr Robinson has said he will meet us, however, and I assume that will happen."