Stupid question re rear spring

[BobbyG]

Guys - On my coupe - the area inside the trunk on the floor directly above the rear crossmember that the rear spring sits in - I have a metal panel that is fixed flush with the trunk floor.

Now - Todays job is re fitting the rear end & spring BUT I also want to fit new U bolts

Am I right in thinking that the panel directly above them that appears to be 'stuck' in place with seam sealer HAS to be removed in order to get the old U bolts out and new ones in ?

Bob