The state opposition has challenged the government to 'rip up' the contracts for four Indonesian-built ferries and have them built in Newcastle.
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The new River Class ferries are currently undergoing testing in Newcastle and are due to enter service on Sydney Harbour later this year.
The government confirmed on the weekend that the ferries will not be able to pass under two bridges on the Parramatta River if commuters are seated on the top deck.
"It's an absolute joke, the government needs to rip up that contract and they need to build those ferries right here in Newcastle and continue that proud history of ship building that we have in this state," Deputy Opposition Leader Yasmin Cately said on Monday.
A further six Indonesian-built vessels are yet to be delivered as well as three new Emerald-class ferries that are being built in China.
NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance defended the decision to buy 10 new ferries on Monday and said critics needed to take a 'chill pill'.
"They've been purposely designed this way so that commuters and those who enjoy the river cats can get outside," he said.
Mr Constance said the decision to include viewing decks was made to improve the experience of passengers.
"A lot of people do like to get outside on ferries and enjoy the wonderful scenery and fresh air," he said.
Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said the government's decision to outsource the construction of the vessels was a lost opportunity to capitalise on the city's proud ship building heritage.
"This city was a proud ship building city. We have the first fleet class ferries that were built here on Carrington Slipway that are still being used on Sydney Harbour," he said.
"What have we got now? Record high unemployment and we have our Tafe course for ship building callously cut locally by this callous government."
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