BHP Billiton is laying off 70 people in Saskatoon.

The number represents ten per cent of the company's Canadian workforce. It confirmed the layoffs in an email statement to CBC.

"BHP Billiton is focused on sustainable productivity improvements and cost reductions in the face of low global commodities prices," wrote communications manager Bronwyn Wilkinson.

"In that context, we have undergone structural changes and cost reductions in line with those at BHP Billiton globally."

The affected staff will get their notices between now and June.

Wilkinson described the positions as "predominantly functional, with some project roles impacted also."

She added that work at the company's Jansen project is continuing.