Yesterday, the Occupy Calgary members mobilized in Olympic Plaza – and today (Monday), they still sit, tents propped and placards prepared for action. 

An ad-hoc executive committee began forming other committees, soliciting others in the protest group to provide guidance in everything from media training to legal advice for members partaking in the demonstrations.

With parcels of land carved out in both Olympic Plaza and St. Patrick’s Island it does resemble, even if vaguely, a society of sorts. And despite the fact they are being portrayed as a gaggle of fools for having no clear message, they’ve managed to appear more organized than the public bodies charged with overseeing them.

They’re streamlined and have the ability to make decisions swiftly for the prosperity of their cause. 

As of right now, between city officials, bylaw officials, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency and the Calgary Police, no one knows what the next step is in dealing with the Occupy group. The only answer that’s been given to this point is that the St. Patrick’s Islanders need to vacate by the end of October.

For all intents and purposes, from what we’re hearing, no one knows how long the rest of it could last.

When asked, each agency involved has so far responded the same – ‘it’s so-and-so’s responsibility… they can speak to it’ – in not so many words.

At this point in the day, we are no closer to the answer. 

Perhaps this is what happens when a ‘decree’ is given and city agencies are forced to respond, not really knowing the extent of the entity they are dealing with. ‘Just go and do’ they’re told.

Perhaps this was a mistake in the making, when those on-high cleared the way for the protesters – without fully grasping the ramifications.

So, while the message of Occupy Calgary may lack clarity,  the irony is it appears the actual confusion happens to be on the part of the city.