acces to exterior door handle

[wool]

I'm working on a 2007 S40. The exterior door handle on the drivers side no longer will open the door. I've removed the the door panel only to find another metal panel that is held in place with a series of bolts. Once removed, the panel become loose but can not be removed because of the window actuator mechanism, and the interior lock linkage. What is the secret? Do i Have to drill out the rivets that holds this metal panel to the window mechanism? Very frustrated?

Thanks

Wool

95 850 glt
95 530it