Abstract: A radio communication system (5) includes transmitting unit (1) coupled to at least one controller (6). The controller (6) is adapted to combine message intervals (208) into a plurality of arrangements, each arrangement having a selected number of message intervals (208). An arrangement is then selected, and included in an acquisition group message. The arrangement is used for directing a number SCRs (selective call receivers) (2) targeted to receive the acquisition group message to monitor messages during the message reception interval (203) according to the arrangement. The controller (6) then invokes the transmitting unit (1) to transmit the acquisition group message to the SCRs (2). Messages targeted for specific SCR's (2) are then generated, and transmitted by way of transmitting unit (1) during the message reception interval (203) according to the arrangement selected. The targeted SCRs (2) intercept the messages according to the arrangement received in the acquisition group message.