NICOLA Sturgeon considered calling a snap independence referendum after learning that Britain had voted to leave the UK.
The First Minister said that she pondered calling for a fresh poll in the wake of the Brexit vote but decided to explore other options instead.
Speaking at an event for EU nationals living in Scotland, she said: "I could have said on the morning after the referendum 'Scotland voted to stay in, the rest of the United Kingdom voted to come out, we are having a second independence referendum, that's it, a decision.
Read more: Nicola Sturgeon - Second referendum while I am First Minister
"I decided not to do that because, as First Minister, I have a duty to try and bring people together, to try to examine all options and find the best route forward for the country in all circumstances, rather then simply going down the route which happens to fit my political ideas and beliefs, and that is what I am trying to do."
Ms Sturgeon heard from several EU nationals who were scared they might have to leave Scotland because of the decision to leave the EU, with one woman saying her 13-year-old has been bullied at school because the family is Italian.
Caroline Magoha said: "We have to leave with our bags half packed and our feet half out of the door."
Read more: Nicola Sturgeon - Holyrood could block Brexit
The First MInister sought to reassure those worried about their futures in the event of the UK leaving the EU, saying that guarantees should be given by Westminster to allow those already living here to stay.
She said: "I think it's disgraceful such a guarantee hasn't already been given. You are not bargaining chips, you are human beings with families and jobs and lives here and I believe you have a right to certainty."
However, Ms Sturgeon also came under fire from Patrick Harkness, a Northern Irish lecturer at Glasgow University, who said she was threatening his status as a British citizen by continuing to push for Scottish Independence.
Read more: Nicola Sturgeon's Brexit result statement in full
Mr Harkness called for a similar event to be held with Scots worried about their future should Scotland leave the UK.
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