EXHIBIT 23(a) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the Registration Statement (Form S-8) of Battle Mountain Canada Ltd. and the prospectus relating to this Registration Statement pertaining to the options granted pursuant to the Combination Agreement between Battle Mountain Gold Company and Hemlo Gold Mines Inc. and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report dated February 8, 1996, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Hemlo Gold Mines Inc. included in its Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 1995, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. /s/ ERNST & YOUNG Chartered Accountants Toronto, Canada October 18, 1996