Regardless of his current health status, Dr Castro is no youngster also, even if he makes a recovery from the operation, the world's most resilient leader is coming to the end of his days, and even though no one can be sure what will happen in the wake of his death - change is a given.

Once Fidel passes on, the Cuban people will enter a new phase, as the least likely scenario is that the country will more or less remain the same under his brother Raul. Whatever changes take place in there, they are in one way or another likely to impact this country.

As a very close neighbour, the Cayman Islands has over the years been directly impacted by events in Castro's Cuba, most notably the migration of Cubans to other parts of the region and to the United States who have found themselves washing up on our shores for one reason or another.

Historically, this country until recently gave sanctuary to those risking their lives in the hope of reaching some nation that would give them the chance of a better life.

Of course the more recent changes as a result of the controversial Memorandum of Understanding has changed things considerably and any hospitality Caymanians offer to Cubans making the arduous journey are at risk of falling foul of the law.

It is fair to assume, therefore, that in the wake of Castro's passing this country will be affected in some way. Possibly with an increase in migrants as a result of unrest or conversely, the constant stream of Cuban boat people may dry up as new hope gives the people a reason to stay.

If Cuba opens its doors, the potential development and economic improvement in that country will no doubt have a direct impact on Cayman in other ways too.

So far, both the Leader of the Opposition and the Minister of Tourism, (if more cautiously) have indicated that they do not think this country has much to concern itself over changes in Cuba.

Perhaps not. However, we should not under estimate how much competition an open and developing Cuba could give our own tourist sector.

With beautiful beaches, lush countryside, and pristine oceans as well as a climate similar to our own, the country is well positioned to become an attractive destination for both cruisers and stay over tourists.

Moreover, Cuba has an exceptionally well-educated population. It has already tapped into some very specialist fields that are likely to be areas of considerable growth in the near future not least the cosmetic surgery tourism market.

The inexpensive but reportedly top quality treatments are appealing in themselves to many, but combined with the possibility of recovering on a post operation vacation in a Caribbean paradise, increase even more.

The well-educated workforce will, once the opportunity for investment in the country arises, make the place even more attractive for the development of other commercial operations. The development of financial, telecommunications and Information Technology sectors in the new Cuba is certainly a possibility offering more competition for our own offshore industry or even an attractive alternative to some of our skilled professionals facing the rollover immigration issue here.

The future of Cuba is uncertain, but whatever changes occur there, in the foreseeable future, will have an impact here and it is in our Government's best interest to consider the possibilities that change will bring and how we can best ensure that Cayman does not lose out as Cuba develops.

Generally, positive economic development in a region is usually good for all. Trade and investment will offer opportunities for this country to cash in on a new Cuba.

In the end what we should be doing is preparing now for any eventuality.

Assuming that life will always be good here, because of our comparative wealth it is a dangerous road to travel.

An small three-Island country we may be, but the Cayman Islands is a part of the global village and needs to keep an eye on the world around us, particularly those that are so close and from which we may, who knows, need future comfort, as has been the case in years past.