THE First Minister has marked Migrants Day 2020 with a “special message” to EU citizens living in Scotland.

With the Brexit deadline fast approaching – and just “hours” left to secure a deal, according to Michel Barnier – Nicola Sturgeon used her video message to thank EU citizens for making a home in Scotland and urged them stay. She stressed that Scotland is a “better place with you living here”.

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In the clip, the First Minister tells viewers: “The last few months have been tougher than any of us could ever have imagined. During that time you have played an essential part in Scotland’s efforts to tackle Covid and I want to thank each and every one of you for that.

“We’ve all been reminded this year, perhaps more than ever, just how big a contribution you make to Scotland. Together, we are friends, family, colleagues and neighbours. Together, we are Scotland, and me and many others are so proud and so grateful that you have done us the honour of making your home here.”

Sturgeon explains that she doesn’t think it should be necessary for EU citizens to apply to secure their right to stay in the UK beyond Brexit as Scotland is already their home – but says the UK Government now requires this through the EU Settlement Scheme.

About 214,000 applications from Scotland have been received, but there are approximately 234,000 EU citizens who make their home here.

“Many of you have already secured your status in this way,” the First Minister says in her video message. “But many of you haven’t yet and that’s the main reason for my message to you. The Scottish Government wants you to apply.”

She concludes: “Fundamentally, my message is a simple one: please apply because Scotland is a better place with you living here. Scotland is your home. You are welcome here and we really, really want you to stay.”

The First Minister’s video message was also formatted as an open letter and translated into Italian, Lithuanian, French, Polish, Romanian, Spanish and German.

Social media graphics featuring the message have also been sent out in these languages.

Sturgeon encouraged EU citizens seeking more information on staying in Scotland beyond Brexit to visit www.mygov.scot/stayinscotland