393 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the criteria used to assess applications for the catering contract at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42325/06]

394 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if the catering contract has been awarded, for Shannon Airport, to a company which only registered as a company on 4 December 2006, despite the fact that tenders were invited long before this time; if the company has been started by three existing management staff at Shannon Airport; if that company has assets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42326/06]

395 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the number of applications received under the tendering process for catering facilities at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42327/06]

396 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if €2.5 million or any State funding has been provided to help the start up expenses of the successful applicant for the catering contract at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42328/06]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 393 to 396, inclusive, together.

The management and operation of Shannon Airport is a day to day matter for the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) and accordingly I have no function in relation to the issues raised by the Deputy. I should also point out that the Exchequer provides no financial support to any of the State Airports.