With the introduction of the new Alberta Premier, Jim Prentice, there are high hopes for progress to be made regarding the Northern Gateway Pipeline. From the opinions of many officials, Mr. Prentice will be better “suited” to deal with the First Nations with his understanding of the issues put forth by the group as well as his experience as the former federal cabinet minister for aboriginal affairs, industry and environment.

Source: http://jpgreenword.wordpress.com/2012/04/14/the-disrespectful-behaviour-of-our-government-towards-first-nations/

This is interconnecting the external factor of societal and cultural trends. The First Nations people believe in the spiritual connections involving stewardship, as it is our job to take care of the land as it provides for us. So this idea of drilling and digging into the land to create crude oil pipelines has a long list of potential environmental dangers that clash with the First Nation beliefs. First off, environmental clean up tactics must be specifically prepared by Northern Gateway Pipeline, deemed viable, and they will have to amp up these projects for the continuation of the project to even be considered without protest. Though it may be expensive, it is one of many conditions that has yet to be properly met.

reference: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/industry-first-nations-share-northern-gateway-pipeline-ally-in-prentice/article20501547/