The Government's being urged to reverse a decision to scrap the contract for the Cook Strait's emergency tug. 

Transport Minister Chris Bishop last year confirmed the 'MMA Vision' would leave service in February, saying its cost outweighs the risk, and it hasn't been required in most major incidents.  

But the Maritime Union's secretary Carl Findlay says with new Interislander ferries still three years away, removing the tug could be gambling with lives. 

He told Andrew Dickens for peace of mind and the security of our coast, we really need this vessel. 

Findlay says it’s proven itself time and time again, and Bishop could have a very serious situation on his hands if the funding isn’t reinstated.  

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