The Diocese of Aitape has launched it's first cooperate plan as part of the Bishop's vision to make the diocese one of the best in the country.

After a two-day consultation meeting for all major stakeholders from 7th to 8th March 2006, the final draft was officially launched on Wednesday.

The meeting had participants from the Diocese offices such as health, education and finance, Provincial Government, District Administration, Police personnel, prominent business owners, church denominations and the general public.

The Cooperate Plan came about with the professional assistance and guidance of a professional planner who is also the Diocesan Manager, Maran Nateleo. It is also undergoing another planning process of formulating a Pastoral Plan, with the guidance of Fr. Martin Ween the Director of the St. Martin's Pastoral Centre. These two plans will be administered for a period of 5 years, from 2006 - 2010.

After a meeting that was held on 5th December 2002, it had taken three (3) yeas for the formulation of the plan to be completed. And after much consultation, review and analysis by those in authority, the diocese finally had it's first plan to cater for it as a cooperate entity of it's own.

Mr. Nateleo also emphasised the purpose of having this plan. He said it would educate our people about our vision, lead and motivate all diocesan employees to committment and dedication to our vision, and not just any plan, a good plan to assist the diocese to help itself (be self-reliant).

Many of the participants commented that they were happy with the initiative and that it was important for them as stakeholders to gather and share ideas and cooperate together to ensure that services are delivered to the people of Aitape-Lumi and Nuku District.

After the official launching of the plan, a delicious dinner was held at the St. Martin's Pastoral Center for all the participants.