Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the organising and advisory committees, it is our pleasure to invite you to attend the 4th International Conference on Molluscan Shellfish Safety. The Conference will be held in the Faculty of Medicine (University of Santiago de Compostela), located in the historic mediaeval city of Santiago de Compostela. You will have the opportunity of  participating in scientific debates and exchanging ultimate information and ideas as well as being embedded in the mystic, spiritual, plenty of mediaeval remembrances atmosphere of this old city. Even for those who love adventure and absortion, there is the opportunity of performing a pilgrimage, walking on the old paths that cross Europe leading to Santiago de Compostela. Do not be worried, this is not required to attend the Conference.

The Conference will begin with registration and a Welcome reception on Monday evening, June 3rd. From Tuesday 4th to Saturday 8th there will be a full scientific programme of oral presentations, dedicated poster sessions and roundtables. Galicia is the European region with the highest molluscan shellfish production. On the Thursday 6th afternoon a visit to O Grove, the area in the mouth of Ría de Arosa with the highest density of mussel culture is planned, including a cruise through the mussel rafts. A social programme both for delegates and accompanying persons is designed also.

We are making every effort to organise a programme that is attractive. Nevertheless, the success of the Conference will largely depend on active participation of (the more the better) delegates. We encourage you to attend and actively participate. Every suggestion will be taken into account and carried out, if possible. We look forward to meeting you at Santiago de Compostela.