By Christian Smith

Carles Puigdemont, the Catalan president has refused to rule out declaring independence of the state today.

In a speech delivered in Barcelona, Mr Puigdemont said the relationship with Spain was “unsustainable,” however, instead of announcing a unilateral declaration of independence as expected by many following a 90 percent ballot on October 1, he gave time for mediation.

“We propose to suspend the effect of the independence declaration… in order to work towards putting into practice the result of the referendum… Today, we are making a gesture of responsibility in favour of dialogue,” he said.

Although, the Catalan leader is allowing time for dialogue, he promised to deliver the people’s will for a break away from Madrid.

The Referendum was judged as illegal by Spain’s constitutional court. The Government says it would not hold any dialogue while any declaration for independence looms.