This map shows the location of Athy in relation to Dublin and other Irish cities. Athy has a population of approximately five thousand people. It is located South-West of Dublin where the Grand Canal, (which originates in Dublin), meets the Barrow River. The Barrow rises in the Sliabh Bloom Mountains and flows into the sea at Waterford. Both of these waterways are navigable by small boats and barges.
Recent census figures show an increase in the towns population. This is mainly due to an improvement in the road and rail network which serve the town and the development of local industry and amenities.
Situated in the fertile Barrow valley, it is not surprising to learn that farming is a mainstay of the community. Malting Barley (for Brewing) and Sugar Beet are the main crops grown. The Barley is processed by Minch Norton Malt Ltd. in Athy and the Sugar Beet is processed by The Irish Sugar Company in Carlow 15Km south of Athy.
Other major employers includeTegral Building Products and Tegral Metal Forming who produce a range of building and roofing materials, Shuttleworth who produce conveyor systems mainly for the food and electronics industry, Peerless Rugs who produce floor coverings, Canada Dry Export Ltd. who manufacture soft drinks and mixers. Borden Ltd. who produce tin cans, and Batchelors Ltd. Pea processors.
The school is located 1 Km. South of Emily Square on the Carlow Road