The Minister for Communications has begun the review process for the annual television licence fee paid to RTÉ.
In a statement, Mr Ahern said: "As part of our Programme of Public Sector Broadcasting Reform, the Government decided that the RTÉ licence would be reviewed annually. The licence fee can fall or rise, up to the rate of inflation."
He said any changes in the licence fee will depend upon RTÉ's ability to implement structural reform and meet its programming commitments as set out in the RTÉ charter.
He is inviting tenders for advisers to assess RTÉ's performance in these "key areas".
Mr Ahern said the review will cover a four-week period, starting in mid-October, and should be available for submission to him by the end of November.
"These public service broadcasting reforms are delivering the quality national broadcaster we deserve. RTÉ is owned by the public and exists to serve the public. These reforms aim to enable RTÉ serve the public more effectively," he added.
There has recently been speculation that the fee adjustment review process may not in fact lead to an increase in the annual €152 fee in line with inflation.
Mr Ahern has received advice saying he could cut the licence fee without reducing RTÉ's revenue.
This is because the growing number of households in the State means a higher number of television licences is being sold each year, thereby increasing revenue.