In a New Year message issued last night, Dr Paisley stressed the need for delivery of real, meaningful support for the police, the courts and the rule of law.
Downing Street had the primary role cajoling and consulting with the DUP and Sinn Féin in recent weeks.
Those discussions had an influence on Sinn Féin's president, Gerry Adams, pushing his party to call a special Ard Fheis on policing policy for later this month.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair is likely to be less satisfied with the New Year message released by the DUP leader last night.
Dr Paisley says the process is about delivery of real, meaningful and quality support for the police, the courts and the rule of law.
Dr Paisley does not state unequivocally that he believes a power-sharing government can be in place at Stormont by the end of March.
This New Year message is likely to be seen as Ian Paisley attempting to calm doubters within his own party rather than reaching out to potential partners in government.
Yesterday, the Sinn Féin President, Gerry Adams, told republicans that now was the time to get involved with policing.
He told hundreds of supporters in Co Fermanagh that he wanted a frank debate before the special Ard Fheis.
