Welcome to the ESCP International Symposium on Clinical Pharmacy 2018 in Belfast!

Dear Colleague

On behalf of the School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Northern Ireland and to the 47th European Symposium on Clinical Pharmacy, 2018. This event will be an exceptional opportunity for clinical pharmacists to share and discuss new approaches to the delivery of clinical pharmacy services and advances in pharmacotherapy, and to network with practitioners and researchers in the field.

Although a small country, our traditions of looking outward and of transcontinental migration have helped create a world where our diaspora are found throughout the world. Our location, between Europe and America, and our traditions combine to produce a land that is accessible, welcoming, and a pleasure to visit. We expect that for many this will be a first visit to Northern Ireland, while for others it will be an opportunity to return home. There will also be a significant number who, though of Irish ancestry, have never visited our shores. To all delegates and partners, whether this is a first visit, a homecoming, or in a sense both of these, we can offer a venue to exceed your expectations.

Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast has a long and distinguished history, dating from 1929 making it one of the oldest pharmacy degree courses in the United Kingdom. We are acknowledged as a leading centre for Pharmacy teaching and research in the UK, consistently featuring at or near the top of league tables for the subject. Strong international links and a great community spirit are features of our well-established and friendly School.

A visit to Belfast offers a chance to see other parts of the country as well. A landscape of stunning beauty, with a deep cultural and literary history, and a warm and welcoming people have combined to earn us an excellent reputation. A social program can thus be guaranteed that will meet the highest standards. Cooperation with this bid has been secured from our tourist boards, universities and suporting bodies. Strong political support has been assured us at local and national level. All of these factors combine to make Belfast the optimal choice.

JAMES C. MCELNAY  Symposium President