IT is to be hoped that the jailing of pastor John Wilson will at last help bring some closure for his victims.

They have had to endure years of unfathomable suffering and trauma as a result of his actions.

That pain won't suddenly disappear, and indeed their horrific experiences will most likely always live with them.

But to see their attacker locked-up, and at last receiving some justice, should offer a little solace.

Our thoughts are with them as they attempt to move forward.

Almost inevitably in these situations, questions are asked.

Could and should action have been taken sooner? Could potential victims have been spared their ordeal?

And the revelations this week have certainly posed serious questions which demand answers.

Assemblies of God, with whom Wilson was accredited, became aware of allegations more than 20 years ago.

It carried out its own disciplinary hearing and found the case proved, stripping the pastor of that accreditation.

Yet offences were committed over a 26-year period and didn't end until 2010.

Wilson may now be where he belongs, but there is still much that remains unclear.

The public, and his victims in particular, deserve an explanation.