DUP leader and first minister Peter Robinson said his party remained committed to the devolution of policing powers, but said it would not let that happen until the conditions were right.
He expressed confidence that the parties could reach a settlement but insisted Sinn Féin had to show some flexibility in their approach.
Mr Robinson made clear that his party would not bend under the threat of a Sinn Féin walkout.
He said: “The Democratic Unionist Party is committed to ensure that devolution works in the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland and will not accept any second rate deal simply to get across the line to suit someone else’s deadline.”
He added: “If others choose to walk away then I believe that the wrath of the community will be upon them for doing that.”