The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern today unveiled a postage stamp to commemorate the forthcoming 90th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.
Tens of thousands of Irish soldiers died in the four-month assault in northern France that began on July 1, 1916.
The Government is planning a ceremony at the Islandbridge War Memorial in Dublin next month to mark the event.
The limited-edition stamp launched today is a copy of The Battle of the Somme-Attack of the Ulster Division painting by JP Beadle, which depicts the first day of fighting in the battle.
Mr Ahern said the stamp was part of an overall commemorative programme by the Government which aims to reflect the shared history and experience of Irish people of all traditions in the year of 1916.
"The Battle of the Somme saw many young Irish men tragically lose their lives. It is fitting that their sacrifice is remembered, and this commemorative stamp, along with the planned state commemoration at Islandbridge on July 1, is part of that," said Mr Ahern.
"It is important that the history of all of the people, and all of the traditions, of this island is acknowledged and commemorated in an appropriate and respectful manner."
Mr Ahern visited the Somme Museum in Belfast during a visit to the city last November. An Post, also issued a stamp to mark the 90th anniversary of Dublin's Easter Rising in April.
The Taoiseach recently said of the Battle of Somme: "More than 5,000 men of the 36th Ulster Division fell in the first two days in July 1916. They fought alongside 200,000 Irish men from every county of Ireland.
"Their bravery was no less than that shown by the insurgents of Easter Week."
PA