Kenny rejects Greek call for short bailout extension
The Taoiseach has effectively rejected a call from the Greek Prime Minister for a short extension to the bailout.
Enda Kenny says the solution to the crisis will only come about by a return to the talks table in Brussels.
Meanwhile banks remain shut across Greece and limits continue on the amount of cash that can be withdrawn from an ATM.
Earlier today Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras wrote to other EU leaders asking for a short extension to the bailout until after Sunday's referendum.
But speaking in Co. Offaly this afternoon, Taoiseach Enda Kenny said this was simply not possible.
"I've had calls from other leaders who said to me that the programme ends this weekend, they say that they would not be able to get a motion to give an extension to the programme through their parliaments," said the Taoiseach.
He said Michael Noonan had a path worn to Brussels for talks in the past week, at no stage was a referendum mentioned over the past six months of talks, but said the only way to resolve this was back at the talks table and allow common sense to prevail.
Mr Kenny also says Ireland came very close to a Greek style situation.
"Pretty shortly after the Government was elected we were given very clear warnings about the economic difficulties we faced, to the effect that we might need to restrict capital outflows from the banks, and to have the army surround ATM machines," said Mr Kenny.
Enda Kenny also declared that a default by Greece tomorrow on its loans from the IMF does not mean the country leaves the euro.
So for now it seems Greek banks will remain closed, and little in the line of talks will take place before Sunday's referendum in Greece.
