The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, has unveiled a campaign aimed at improving the lives of the estimated 400,000 people living with disabilities in Ireland.
Mr Ahern, who is patron of the European Year of People with Disabilities, promoted the "100 Days 100 Ways to Make the Difference" nationwide campaign at the Mansion House today.
The campaign calls on the people of Ireland to make a pledge to improve the lives of the disabled. Pledges have been drafted and arranged under the headings of Work, School, Home, Out & About, Just a Thought and Big Commitment.
It is hoped when the year officially closes in January 2004 some 250,000 pledges will have been registered online at www.able.ie.
The Taoiseach said: "I believe that this campaign will be a vital catalyst in encouraging Irish people to make the difference and make Ireland a better place for people with disabilities.
"I want to call on the people of Ireland to renew that incredibly generous spirit that was so apparent during the Special Olympics this summer."
According to Ms Angela Kerins, Chairperson of the National Co-ordinating Committee: "The Make the Difference Campaign aims to inspire people in all sectors of Irish society to ask "What can I do to remove the barriers faced by people with disabilities?
The campaign is being supported by a nation-wide billboard, building wrap and radio campaign over the coming weeks.