A fresh round of strike action will affect the Merseyrail network next month.
Seven walk-outs have already taken place as the row over the transport authority’s plans to implement driver-only operated trains continues.
Up to 220 rail guards will be removed from their existing posts as part of the scheme, set to take effect in 2020, which has prompted the industrial action.
Attempts to resolve the dispute between the RMT and Merseyrail chiefs have remained at an impasse despite mediation from Liverpool’s Metro Mayor.
But talks with Steve Rotheram broke down last month, leading to the union calling a three-day strike at the beginning of September.
A further two 24-hour walkouts are now set to take place on October 3 and 5.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “It is that cynical and hostile stance from Merseyrail which has left us with no option but press ahead with a further two days of strike action.
“RMT recognises the severe impact that the action will have
“But we are dealing with an employer that refuses to listen or engage with the union on the critical issue of safe rail operation.
“We ask the public to understand that we have no option but to take this high-profile action to force the company back to the negotiating table.
“RMT is calling for genuine talks to take place around a safe and sustainable deal that protects the future safety across Merseyrail services.
“The company should take up that offer of further talks as a matter of urgency.
“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 remains firmly in Merseyrail’s court.”