The Taoiseach Mr Ahern today fuelled speculation that the upcoming General Election would be held the on May 17th.
Speaking in Cork, Mr Ahern revealed that the Dáil would sit next week.
Previous speculation had suggested he would ask the President, Mrs McAleese, to dissolve the Dáil at the end of this week, paving the way for a poll on May 10th or 11th.
But Mr Ahern's comments now make the third week in May the most likely time for the election.
Although May 17th is believed to be the most popular choice, Mr Ahern has not said whether he would hold the election on a weekday or weekend.
