Hasta La Creative!

Agency Spy points to the “fascist regime” north of the border that would dare to limit Crackberry addictions among its workforce.

According to Newswire.ca, Frank Palmer, chairman and CEO of DDB Canada, has issued a new company-wide policy that discourages staff from using their PDAs and other mobile devices, like BlackBerries and cellular phones, during both client and internal meetings.

Inspired by the penalty system used in soccer games, DDB Canada staff will be issued yellow or red cards for PDA misconduct that ultimately may lighten their pocketbooks via a system of fines.

“Over the past year, I’ve become increasingly aware of and annoyed by staff who use their BlackBerries during meetings,” says Palmer. “Whether it’s done openly or covertly under the table, using a PDA during a meeting is completely unacceptable, disrespectful and hinders the progress of the meeting. While these devices are considered time-savers, they’re also extremely intrusive.”

DDB isn’t acting alone. Recently, Canada’s Department of Citizenship and Immigration banned employees from using their BlackBerries between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. in an attempt to reduce work stress.