Train staff across Merseyside will strike next month in fresh industrial action.
Walkouts are scheduled for July 8, 10 and 23 as the dispute over Merseyrail’s plans to introduce driver-only operated trains (DOO) continues to rumble on.
Staff staged 24-hour walkouts in March and April which caused widespread disruption to the local rail network as well as the 2017 Grand National main day.
Over 200 train guards are set to be affected by the changes, which will come into effect in 2020, and have balloted for the latest round of strike action.
The RMT , which represents rail staff, have refused to rule out reaching a resolution before the planned walkouts but insist that the onus is on Merseyrail.
Mick Cash, the union’s general secretary, said: “Merseyrail are completely ignoring the clear wishes of their own passengers, who overwhelmingly oppose the idea of Driver Only Operated trains on their network.
“That pig-headed attitude has forced the union’s hand and the idea that we would compromise on the fundamental issue of rail safety is absurd.
“The ball is now firmly in Merseyrail’s court.”