The federal government is being blamed for delays in launching the new Pelee Islander II in Lake Erie.

The Conservative MPP for Chatham-Kent-Leamington, Rick Nicholls, says the new ferry cannot begin operation without regulatory and safety approvals from Transport Canada.

Nicholls believes the federal agency failed to consider the vessel's modern design and technological advancements, which has resulted in unnecessary delays in the approval process.

The Pelee Islander II sailed into Kingsville in June, but has yet to carry a single passenger.

The $40-million ferry was originally planned to set sail in September, but remains docked in Leamington.

Now, Nicholls says it will not be operational until the spring of 2019.

"The red tape they have tied us up in, there's just not going to be anything operational until the spring.”

The office of Essex MPP Taras Natyshak said it has been getting inquiries from constituents and the NDP member has also been looking for answers, but has yet to receive a satisfactory answer as to the delay or when the Islander will go into regular service.

In an email to CTV News, Transport Canada says since the vessel was built in Chile, it must be certified by an organization called Lloyd’s Register.

Senior Communication Advisor Sau Sau Liu says "Lloyd's Register is responsible for the issuance of the Pelee Islander II vessel inspection certificate to allow it to operate. The issuance of this certificate is between the Recognized Organization and the Owen Sound Transportation Company."

CTV News contacted Lloyd’s Register, but has yet to receive a response.

Pelee Island mayor-elect Ray Durocher says he wants the ferry operational sooner rather than later to enhance the lives of residents, to improve tourism and increase agricultural opportunities.

Durocher tells CTV Windsor once sworn into office, he will contact all parties involved to stop any further delays.

Once operational, the ferry can accommodate 400 passengers and 34 cars, or four tractor-trailers with 16 cars.

The sailing season ends in December and resumes in April.