Users of the State's radio spectrum contributed almost €2 billion to the economy in 2003, according to a new consultants' report prepared for ComReg.

The report also estimates that more than 24,000 jobs in the Republic were dependent on the radio spectrum, which is effectively the space used for all radio communications.

ComReg, which regulates the radio spectrum, is drawing up a new strategy for its development in light of the new statistics. The regulator views the spectrum as a natural State resource, and wants to maximise its economic and social benefits.

The contribution to the economy made by the spectrum in 2003 was the equivalent of 1.4 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), according to the new analysis.

The €1.9 billion in GDP produced by spectrum users - from broadcasters to airlines - compared to €1.5 billion a year earlier.

Most of the growth over the year came in mobile operators, where contributions grew from €569 million to €834 million.

The GDP generated by air services climbed from €498 million to €600 million.

Mobile networks are now one of the largest users of radio spectrum, with more than 3.5 million people consuming services.

Almost half of the employees whose jobs are linked to the sector work in air services, with mobile companies the next biggest employer.

The Republic's location on the western edge of Europe, when coupled with relatively low population density, means that Irish radio spectrum is relatively uncongested.

This allows frequencies to be made available as and when required, but as demands on the spectrum grow management of the area becomes more complicated.

ComReg is seeking views from all users of the radio spectrum and other interested parties before March 4th.