The RUC was today accused of failing to meet targets for reducing burglary, car theft and drug crimes.
In what may be its final review of performance, the Police Authority's annual report described the force's performance as a "mixed bag".
Targets for violent crime and overall detection have been met, according to the report.
But Police Authority chairman Mr Pat Armstrong said: "They have not managed to achieve their goals in reducing levels of domestic burglary, vehicle theft and illegal drugs".
The report for 2000/01 comes amid uncertainty over when the body will be replaced by the new Policing Board, which will oversee RUC reform.
Mr Armstrong acknowledged the changes have had an impact on the force's ability to meet its targets.
"We recognise the particular difficulties faced by the RUC this year with the sizeable reduction in the number of officers available and the widespread reorganisation which has taken place," he said.
With tonight's midnight deadline set by Secretary of State Dr Reid for political parties to nominate to the board looming, only the nationalist SDLP has so far agreed to take its seats.
Unionists are holding out for concessions, including demands to pull back on plans to scrap the full-time reserves.
Sinn Féin has refused to sign up to the new plans, claiming the legislation does not go far enough to satisfy their concerns.
PA