"They have a winter road now, so why would an all weather road make a significant difference? How long does it take to drive to civilization? You can't do that on the winter road?"

So FN's are hopeless then..... incapable of progress? All humans have the same capabilities given the right circumstances and to suggest less would be unfortunate. It's not only a case of getting out either, it's also an opportunity to get in, where exchange can take place amongst interested parties....without monopolies and with competition to balance the game. What of tourism and real access to average people who can't afford fly-in fishing trips on a regular basis. What of other communities that will grow in this region as it opens, providing economy for everyone? This can really only be facilitated by a reliable and consistent access which isn't pirated by exclusive services. You base your argument more on, I suspect, prejudice than facts. You really didn't read that article for the point it was really making did you? You should have read further.

"I would like to see proof that a road will significantly change things before commiting to spending billions on roads."

You'rs is a catch 22. You can't provide proof unless you take the action....and you'd have to go in with your eyes open to see.