 Poverty remains a massive problem since independence in 2002, with about half of the 1 million population unemployed and 45 per cent living on less than US$1 a day.On 23 June 2016 the blessing and dedication of the new St John de Brito chapel took place in Cairui in Baucau, built with project support from Catholic Mission (Australia).The Maria Auxiliadora Medical Clinic run by the Salesians of Don Bosco in the town of Venilale, has been serving the residents of Venilale and 13 surrounding villages for many years.