Why didn't your school do your NVFR as part of your CPL?
Oh...that's right. They get more money if you do it separately!
You mightn't get a job needing your MECIR straight away, but it will be even longer before you get one needing your ATPL.
Get the extra hours by doing your MECIR. It will put you in a slightly better position than someone with a bare 150 hrs.