Talks between the Taoiseach and Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy on tackling gangland crime were described as "productive" by a spokesman for Mr Ahern tonight.
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Brian Cowen, Minister for Justice Brian Lenihan, Green Party leader John Gormley, and acting PD leader Mary Harney attended the talks in Government Buildings. Deputy Commissioner Fachtna Murphy, who is due to succeed Mr Conroy next month, was also present.
The main topic on the agenda was the increase in gun murders, which have claimed the lives of 17 people so far this year.
The problem of alcohol and drug-fuelled anti-social behaviour was also discussed during the hour-long meeting.
A spokesman for the Taoiseach later described the hour long meeting as very productive.
"They covered general issues in relation to gang land crime, in particular the recent increase in gun murders," said the spokesman. "They also discussed lawlessness, including anti-social behaviour linked to the abuse of alcohol and drugs."
Mr Ahern and Mr Conroy agreed to follow up on issues raised during the meeting around Christmas or the New Year.
There were 27 gun murders in 2006 compared with 21 in 2005 and just nine in 2004.