Minister Simon Harris plays down Irish difficulties from Greece vote

Ireland is unlikely to face any serious economic difficulties if Greece votes against its international bailout and potentially then leaves the euro, according to Simon Harris, the junior finance minister.

The Fine Gael minister said Ireland wants Greece to remain in the euro and for Athens to return to the negotiating table with European leaders over its bailout terms.

Mr Harris was speaking ahead of a referendum in Greece on Sunday where voters will ultimately decide whether they favour a cash-for-reforms proposal from Athens’ creditors.