Seniors’ rights group Age Concern is confident that a compromise with Government will be reached over plans to reinstate the vehicle licensing fee for some older motorists.The advocacy group met with Finance Minister Bob Richards yesterday morning to express fears that the proposal would leave many struggling seniors even more out of pocket.In his Budget statement last month, Mr Richards announced that, while seniors who owned smaller cars in bands A to D would continue to get their annual vehicle licence for free, owners of larger vehicles in bands E to H would have to pay up for their licences. Data suggests that the exemption was being abused to the tune of $40 million since it was introduced in 2007.But on Friday, Transport Minister Shawn Crockwell said Government was not reconsidering the amendment after acknowledging that it did discriminate against some seniors.Last night Age Concern executive director Claudette Fleming — who attended the meeting — praised seniors for taking a stand and getting their message across.And she also thanked Government for listening to the concerns of older motorists and taking action.“It was a very good meeting and we found the Minister to be very receptive,” Mrs Fleming said.“There were many seniors who either called in or sent e-mails which obviously made our job easier. We were expecting a straightforward ‘no’ but that didn’t happen. In fact it was pretty much a case of preaching to the converted. The Minister was very helpful and listened to what we had to say.“It was great that so many seniors made their voices heard. They didn’t just sit back but got involved. Obviously seniors represent a large percentage of the electorate and they really flexed their muscle. It was a wide cross-section of seniors who were concerned.“The response from the Minister was that these concerns were being given very serious consideration and, while there was still a need for shared sacrifice the Government is looking for ways in which both objectives can be met.”Mrs Fleming said Mr Richards was unable to say how Government will redraft the policy so that all seniors will continue to get the tax break.“Of course, nothing has happened yet,” she said“We’re waiting with bated breath on the final deliberations but I believe a compromise can be reached — we’ll just have to wait and see.”