The first Read-out Forum took place some five years ago at the last Instrumentation Ireland Exhibition and discussed the controversial issue of Fieldbus. Now that that issue has quietened down somewhat the impact of the new communication environment on control and automation may be assessed. This symposium aims to address the issues facing industries in the 21st century. These include traceability, data processing in real time and security. This latter was brought into sharp focus by the events of 11th September 2001 when suddenly strategic enterprises such as pharmaceutical, chemical power, water food and transport became more aware of their vulnerability. See Programme. This symposium is addressed to those who are involved in the I&C areas of the industries who are at the forefront in using technology or who are considering how best to confront the problems facing the modern process industry. These are some of the industries which will benefit from attendance at the forum Chemical Consultancies Food Oil & Gas Pharma Power System houses Water The concept is simple. A keynote speaker will address the symposium and a representative of each of the four main suppliers into the process and utility supply industries will discuss their philosophy and aims in that area. There will be plenty of time for discussion and we have been fortunate to obtain the services of Andrew Bond, editor of Industrial Automation Insider, Europe's leading independant voice in the area of control and automation, to chair the forum. Details of the speakers may be found on the speakers page. It is aimed at I&C Enginers and Technicians and management with a technical background.