A Smithfield, Va.-based union local has filed additional charges against Smithfield Packing Co. with the National Labor Relations Board, according to a report in the Daily Press of Newport News, Va.

Food Processors Local 1046 has filed at least six separate charges against Smithfield in the last three weeks, the newspaper said. Among the union's accusations are that Smithfield is refusing to bargain with it.

Smithfield plans to close its South plant in Smithfield, Va., whose workers are represented by Local 1046. Some of those workers will transfer to the North plant in the same town, whose workers are represented by the Teamsters. Other workers may be transferred to other locations.

The newspaper report notes that an investigator from the NLRB's office in Baltimore will look into the merits of the charges. If they are found to have merit, the first step is to pursue a settlement.

Smithfield executives were not available to comment.

For more stories, go to www.meatingplace.com.