The President of the European Parliament, Mr Pat Cox, has been named as European of the Year at a ceremony in Dublin.
The European Movement/Aer Rianta awards are presented to Irish people who have made significant contributions in different European areas.
Mr Cox was nominated for his achievements in his role as EU president.
Also nominated were former Fine Gael taoiseach and Irish Timescolumnist, Dr Garret Fitzgerald was chosen for his extensive work during in the Nice Treaty campaign.
Other nominees include Senator Maurice Hayes, nominated for his work as Chairman of the National Forum on Europe; Ms Gemma Hussey, nominated for her work as director of the European Women's Foundation; Dr Noel Dorr, for his work in the Nice Treaty campaign; and Ms Joanna Crooks, chosen for her work as General Manager of the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland.
The award was presented by the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, at a ceremony in the Shelbourne Hotel.
The European of the Year Awards have been staged since 1988 by the European Movement, a voluntary and organisation, established to inform Irish citizens of European issues.
Previous winners of the Award have included Nobel Peace Prize winner Mr John Hume, businessman Mr Michael Smurfit and playwright Mr Brian Friel.